Title challengers Liverpool cannot afford to slip up on Tuesday night as fourth placed Arsenal visit Anfield.
Rafa Benitez’ men are one point behind Manchester United at the top of the Premier League although Sir Alex Ferguson’s side do have a game in hand.
Nevertheless, Liverpool can do little about United’s results and know they must win every remaining game if they’re to have a chance of securing their first title since 1990.
One of the main reasons the Anfield outfit have been able to mount a challenge this season is down to their home form.
In 16 matches, the reds have won 10, drawn six and lost none. Had they been able to secure wins against the likes of West Ham, Stoke, Fulham and Hull though they would no doubt be runaway leaders.
Arsenal have the capabilities of ending that run though, as they are ranked fifth in the away team performance chart having won eight, drawn five and only lost three matches on their travels.
Arsene Wenger’s side may be out of title contention this season, but they will have a strong say in who wins the Premier League trophy this season having to play all three sides that still harbour hopes of success in their final six games of the season.
The Gunners’ defeat to Chelsea in the FA Cup semi-final has left them with only the Champions League to play for, but manager Arsene Wenger certainly won’t let his side’s league form wander, despite being seven points clear in fourth.
He said: “We have shown we are mentally strong in adversity this season, and now again we have another good opportunity to show it,
“We want to finish strongly in the Premier League and also qualify for the Champions League final.”
Arsenal's chances of victory have been dealt a blow with the news that Robin van Persie and Emmanuel Adebayor will be missing from their squad.
The visitors will again have Lukasz Fabianski in goal for the match, despite some nervous performances by the Polish international, but Wenger has full confidence in his young stopper.
He said: “I believe he will be one of the best goalkeepers in the world.
“He has the talent, he is brave, he is intelligent. Technically he is very good. He was not at his best against Chelsea, but we have to accept that.”
Liverpool are again likely to be without influential captain Steven Gerrard, who aggravated a groin problem two weeks ago, meaning that Javier Mascherano and Xabi Alonso will have to be on their game in midfield if Benitez’ side are to get all three points.
Mascherano said: “I think all the games we have left will be difficult, but the most important thing is to only think about the next one, which is Arsenal,
“Arsenal have some good players. They also have players coming back from injury who will be fresh for the final part of the season.
“They will want the points because they are fighting for fourth place, so I think it will be a very good match for the supporters to watch.
“I don't know if it's a bad time to be playing them, but we are playing well and have confidence. If we play to our level then we will have a chance.”
Jed, Queensferry around 3 years, 1 month ago