Christmas tends to throw up some utterly bizarre results which have clearly been fuelled by food and drink – far too much of it in some cases.
But, being on 21st of December, this one should be free from the festive gut and therefore a little easier to predict.
Arsenal’s season has been one of – well just read a decent review of any of the last 5 seasons for an accurate reflection of how this one is going – Arsene’s team plays well against the minnows but reveals its soft centre in the face of the big boys.
So where does that leave Liverpool? Well, we consider them one of The Big Boys, but they have had a rather shocking season and the rot needs stopping fast. Apart from a painful lack of confidence, Liverpool simply don’t have a fit finisher and that is causing major problems. Regardless of the fitness of Daniel Sturridge Liverpool need to act decisively in the window to bring in another goalscorer. Easier said that done. But there are still bargains about – Jackson Martinez anyone?
Arsenal currently have 9 crocked players but will hope to have Oxlade-Chamberlain, Monreal and Rosicky available for selection for this one.
Meanwhile, Liverpool are still without Sturridge, Johnson and Flanagan. Mario Balotelli should be fit and available for selection but has been handed a one match ban on Thursday which will come into effect for the Arsenal game on Sunday (Kick Off 16:00 local time). We think that Rodgers should give Lambert another try before opting for a team without a conventional striker – as he did at United.
So here are our best XIs for what should be an interesting one. We think that a draw is on the cards.
Arsenal and Liverpool fans: let’s have your elevens
