A goal and assist last season; two great recent games – Liverpool must hope Henderson plays on Sunday

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Liverpool may be without Jordan Henderson for the trip to Arsenal on Sunday, but he has had some impressive matches against the Gunners recently.

Just a week after Liverpool thrashed Arsenal 5-1 at Anfield, the Gunners welcome Brendan Rodgers’ side to the Emirates Stadium for a timely FA Cup fifth-round match and the opportunity for swift revenge.

Then again, Liverpool could do the same again; which in short is the beauty of Sunday’s match.

However, Rodgers’ side are likely to be without Jordan Henderson, after the midfielder had surgery on the wrist he injured last time out against the Gunners.

The Daily Star reports that while Henderson could play if needed, he is likely to be replaced by Joe Allen. So if the former Sunderland man does sit out the crunch clash, what will Liverpool be missing?

Below are Henderson’s performance stats in the two league encounters with Arsenal this season. While he had more of the ball in the first fixture in North London, he was arguably more influential in the second match last weekend, winning the ball back on nine occasions and playing three key passes.

But if those were impressive performances against Arsene Wenger’s side, that is nothing compared with Henderson’s visit to the Emirates last season.

In a 2-2 draw Henderson scored one and set up the other, in one of his most impressive performances of the campaign.

Considering that, Rodgers may play him regardless.

But if he does sit the game out, Arsenal may be breathing a small sigh of relief, in relation to a player who may be unsung but who is beginning to prove just how vital he is to this Liverpool side.

image: © kong niffe