Match to be played on Sunday February 16 2014 at 16:00 GMT. Venue: Emirates Stadium, London.
Arsenal rarely go two games without a win but that’s the situation facing Arsene Wenger ahead of the FA Cup game against Liverpool.
The Gunners have a chance to dish out some revenge following the 5-1 thrashing they received at Anfield last weekend.
Wenger could make some changes to his team as he looks to freshen things up but here’s the side he could go with.
GK – Wojciech Szczesny
The Pole produced some world class saves in the draw against Manchester United which kept the Gunners in the game. He’ll keep his place.
RB – Bacary Sagna
Sagna will have to be very disciplined out on the right hand side. If he gets too far forward and can’t recover then Liverpool can hurt Arsenal in behind.
CB – Per Mertesacker
Looked back to his old self against United and should continue in defence. He should have more confidence to take a few more risks this time round against Liverpool.
CB – Laurent Koscielny
The Frenchman looked sharp and fit against Manchester United so he should continue next to the big German. Koscielny’s pace means he’ll have to do most of the recovery work for the back four.
LB – Nacho Monreal
Monreal was on the bench for the game against United, which means he should be fresh and ready to make an impact. He needs to be far more effective against Raheem Sterling than he was last weekend.
RM – Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain
The Ox had just over 15 minutes against Manchester United so he’ll be fresh. His pace will also be crucial if Arsenal are forced to counter attack during the game.
DM – Mathieu Flamini
Wenger could throw Flamini straight back into the team following suspension. He can protect the defence and will allow Arteta to be rested.
CM – Jack Wilshere
Wilshere has an important role to play in terms of controlling the tempo of Arsenal’s midfield play. He can drop deep or push further up.
AM – Santi Cazorla
Cazorla can slot into that role behind the main striker. He’s been an effective creative midfielder ever since he joined the club and will allow Mesut Ozil to have a rest.
LM – Lukas Podolski
The German has played a wide left role before so it won’t be unfamiliar to him. It’s a big chance for him to make a statement before the Champions League game against Bayern Munich next week.
ST – Olivier Giroud
Giroud was nowhere near his best against Manchester United. The Frenchman should see this as a chance to get some form and momentum before he has to face the Bayern back four.
image: © wonker
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