Prediction: Liverpool vs Arsenal

2nd March 2012

Both Liverpool and Arsenal can be forgiven for feeling optimistic before the clash at Anfield, and it is that confident mood that should guarantee us an exciting derby match. While the Reds go into the game on the back of their first major success in six years, the Gunners are fresh from the 5-2 victory over Tottenham.

Kenny Dalglish has done brilliantly to improve the club fortunes in just over a year in charge, but Liverpool are still long way from returning to old glory days. The Carling Cup trophy is certainly a step in the right direction, but in order to make this season a success, the Reds will have to achieve Champions League qualification as well. Now that Liverpool are seven points adrift of fourth-placed Arsenal, that may not look like a realistic goal, but when we know that the Reds have a game in hand and are set to welcome their rivals to Anfield, the perspective suddenly changes. Liverpool are still unbeaten at home this season and that can give the hosts a much needed boost before what could be a crucial Premier League encounter, but selection problems are making life difficult for Kenny Dalglish. Daniel Agger is out with a cracked rib, whereas Steven Gerrard is doubtful after suffering a groin injury while on international duty.

Following the embarrassing defeats to Milan and Sunderland, Arsenal fans feared that the dismal run would continue as the Gunners prepared to host in-form Tottenham and their worst fears appeared to be coming true when Spurs were two goals up just few minutes before half-time. However, Arsene Wenger’s side just wouldn’t give up and after scoring two late first-half goals, they added three more in the second period to produce one of the biggest comebacks in the history of North London derbies. It is really interesting to see how one game can change an entire course of a season, although the fans are certainly hoping this new-found confidence won’t be short-lived. The Gunners have been far from impressive on the travels this season, but I have a feeling they can get something from this game. Robin van Persie, Tomas Rosicky and Thomas Vermaelen are all injury doubts, but Aaron Ramsey is definitely out.

Conclusion

Given that both sides brimming with confidence at the moment, we could see a very open game at Anfield, and over 2.5 goals, therefore, looks like a good option here. Liverpool have shown a massive improvement in the scoring department, whereas the Tottenham game proved Arsenal are still a side with amazing attacking potential.

Verdict: Over 2.5 goals

Best Odds: 17/20

Bookmaker: bet365