Arsenal fans have been given some bad news by Jürgen Klopp as Mikel Arteta prepares to take his side to Anfield.
What’s the story?
Well, the Gunners take on the Reds this Sunday as they attempt to win a Premier League game at Anfield for the first time since September 2012.
Arsenal will have to deal with the fresh quartet of Mohamed Salah, Andy Robertson Cody Gakpo and Trent Alexander-Arnold after Klopp chose to rest them in Tuesday’s 0-0 draw against Chelsea.
Now, the German has provided more bad news for Arsenal.
Klopp has revealed that Virgil van Dijk – who missed Tuesday’s clash at Stamford Bridge due to illness – will be available when Arsenal come to Anfield on Sunday.
London World quote the 55-year-old as saying: “Yeah, yeah, yeah. He was ill but until the weekend we have a few days.”
Of course, some may question whether this really is bad news for Arsenal, as the Netherlands international has not been his imperious self for much of this season.
However, Van Dijk is still a very dangerous weapon for Liverpool.
Why Arsenal should still fear Van Dijk
While the Dutchman may have lost a yard of pace, he remains a dangerous opponent for Arsenal due to his passing ability – something Arteta even highlighted back in 2020.
After a 3-1 defeat to Liverpool at Anfield, the Spaniard told Sky Sports: “When you get past the Liverpool press, you then hit Van Dijk. He then hits a 60-yard pass to Mo Salah, and they are out of the press. That is quality.”
Clearly, Arteta is wary of the £75m man’s extraordinary passing range, which could be utilised as part of the game plan to hurt this current Arsenal side, who are ferocious when pressing high.
If Van Dijk brings his A game to Anfield on Sunday, it will be a tough task for the Gunners in their hunt for three points.
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