Arne Slot knows that picking up points vs. Arsenal at the Emirates vs Arsenal on January 8th and admitted as much to the media at his press conference.
“It’s going to be a proper fight,” Slot said. “So, they hardly concede goals. They can score from open play, they can score from set-pieces, very good ideas about build-up, can play a long ball. They have the complete package, and for that reason, they, in my opinion, deserve to be on top this season.”
Team News
Slot is still hopeful that Hugo Ekitiké can play vs. Arsenal due to Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness, but admits that since the games are so close together, he may not be available.
He has not trained with us until now, and let’s see if he can today [Wednesday].
“I’ve said, I think, two or three days ago when we played Fulham that he is not going to be out for long, but because games come so fast, he is in between, maybe training with the team, or it would take him one or two days extra.”
In my predicted Liverpool XI vs Arsenal, I predicted that Ekitiké will play, but also explores other options if he can’t give it a go. You can also get up-to-date information on injuries and others away from the club on our Liverpool injuries and suspensions page.
Scouting Arsenal
Fittingly, the Gunners have plenty of weapons at their disposal. Viktor Gyökeres, Leandro Trossard, and Declan Rice make up a three-headed monster in attack, where the trio have scored a combined total of 20 goals this season. The Gunners have only lost in EPL play twice this season, with one of them coming to Liverpool at Anfield in August.
“Maybe their main strength is they have so many strengths,” Slot said. “Or their main strength is they hardly have something that is weak. We have to be completely ready because as well they are in a very positive vibe at the moment, and it's obvious that we aren't, especially because we've conceded again a late goal. But I think everyone, me for sure, is looking forward to this game because it's always nice to be part of a Liverpool game, but especially if you face Real Madrid or Arsenal or [Manchester] City or these kinds of games. So, we're definitely looking forward to going there tomorrow.”
LFC Globe Verdict
As Slot said, the Reds will have a proper fight on their hands vs. the Gunners, but Liverpool have also pulled off some surprising wins as the underdogs this season If Ekitiké can play it would really boost Liverpool’s chances, as Arsenal are unbeaten at the Emirates this season, so any points gained would be huge.
Where To Watch
| Match Info | UK Broadcast | US Broadcast | Canada Broadcast |
| Kick-off | 8:00 PM GMT | 3:00 PM ET | 3:00 PM ET |
| TV Channel | Sky Sports Main Event | Peacock (Stream) | FuboTV |
| Live Stream | Sky Go / NOW | Peacock | FuboTV Canada |
