Arsenal could extend their winning streak to six matches when they entertain Liverpool at the Emirates in this afternoon’s early kick off. A victory for the Merseysiders, meanwhile, would put them within three points of the Gunners and right back in the hunt for a Champions League berth after falling to defeat at home to United last time out.
Arsene Wenger’s men are currently in the midst of their richest vein of form this campaign, having recorded wins in nine of their previous 10 outings. Olivier Giroud’s resurgence (six goals in five starts) has clearly been integral to their recent dominance, but so has the resilience of a rearguard that’s shut out their opposition in four of their last five home ties and conceded the second least big chances (five) of any team in the last six Gameweeks. The French marksman’s clinical displays have compensated for Alexis Sanchez’s drop in form – the Chilean winger remains heavily backed among Fantasy league managers despite registering a solitary goal in seven starts.
Sanchez retains his start in an Arsenal XI that includes Mesut Ozil; he earns a recall following a forced absence at Newcastle through illness. Theo Walcott drops to the bench as Aaron Ramsey retains his start, whilst at the back, Arsene Wenger recalls both Hector Bellerin and Per Mertesacker as Gabriel drops to the bench and Calum Chambers is excluded from the squad.
In light of Arsenal’s resolute defence, the absence of Daniel Sturridge seems even more significant for Liverpool: the Reds frontman is nursing a hip muscle strain and only makes the bench at the Emirates.
Enter Raheem Sterling. The Jamaica-born winger has chalked up just one goal in his previous six starts for Liverpool yet remains the second-most popular midfielder in the Fantasy Premier League roster. Given the seemingly relentless coverage on his ongoing contract saga at Anfield, all eyes and cameras will be focused on his performance today.
Brendan Rodgers starts Sterling as his central attacker, recalling fit-again Lucas to his midfield along with Lazar Markovic as Adam Lallana misses out through injury. Martin Skrtel’s suspension brings Kolo Toure into the starting lineup: he’s preferred to Dejan Lovren who sits amongst the subs.
