Liverpool host Arsenal in a blockbuster Premier League showdown between the two early title contenders.
Locked on six points apiece, victory would see either Liverpool or Arsenal go top of the table heading into the international break.
Team News
Alexis Mac Allister is available for Liverpool after he missed their victory at Newcastle due to a minor fitness issue, which necessitated his absence as a precaution.
Jeremie Frimpong remains absent with a hamstring injury.
Arsenal will be without Bukayo Saka after he suffered a hamstring injury during their 5-0 victory at home to Leeds, which paves the way for Eberechi Eze to make his club debut following his move from Crystal Palace.
Christian Norgaard, Ben White (both knock) and Martin Odegaard (shoulder) face late fitness checks.
Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus both remain sidelined with knee injuries.
When is Kick-Off?
Liverpool meet Arsenal at Anfield on Sunday 31 August at 4:30pm BST, live on Sky Sports Main Event in the UK.
Stat Attack
- Liverpool are winless in their last six league meetings against Arsenal (D4, L2).
- Arsenal are winless in their last 12 league visits to Liverpool at Anfield (D5, L7).
- Arsenal’s Mikel Merino scored in both appearances against Liverpool last season (D2).
- No Liverpool player has a better expected goals per game average than Hugo Ekitike – 1.34XG
- No outfield Arsenal player has created more successful long passes in their first two games than William Saliba (7).
Prediction
Liverpool have absolutely rode their luck to win their two opening games after having twice blown 2-0 leads so it is imperative that their defence is rock solid, as this is their first proper test against a fierce oppositional attack but their attack is equally capable of causing issues.
Arsenal though have already faced a tough test in their away win at Manchester United on the opening weekend where a clinical moment proved the difference amidst resilient defending, but they turned on their ruthless display against Leeds at home in a statement result.
If there is one thing that is guaranteed here then it will be goals but given how shaky Liverpool’s defence is, I can see Arsenal having enough gust to end their Anfield rut if it isn’t another 2-2 draw.
Prediction: Liverpool 2-3 Arsenal
Result: Liverpool 1-0 Arsenal
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