Liverpool came within ten minutes of victory in this fixture last season when Steven Gerrard‘s opener in the 7th minute was cancelled out by a late Cesc Fabregas strike to rescue a point for the Gunners.
Phil Dowd will referee tomorrow’s Premier League clash between the two clubs at the Emirates Stadium who meet for the second time in four days and will again meet on Tuesday night in the Champions League, back at Anfield.
Due to Tuesday’s European clash, both managers may decide to rest players. However, both clubs have domestic commitments, with Arsenal still chasing the title and Liverpool looking to cement fourth place.
Reports in the media suggest Rafa Benitez may opt to rest either Steven Gerrard or Fernando Torres who have been a recent revelation in the Reds’ rich form of late.
Javier Macherano is suspended for Liverpool following the Football Association’s decision to extend his ban for the red card received against Manchester United for a further two games. Lucas Leiva is expected to cover in the holding midfield role in Mascherano’s absence.
John Arne Riise may come in to replace Fabio Aurelio at left-back, with Benitez likely to rest the Brazilian defender with Tuesday’s game in mind.
The defence may have a reshuffle, with any one of Jamie Carragher, Sami Hyypia or Martin Skrtel dropped to the subs bench.
Arsenal have little injury worry, with Robin van Persie facing late fitness tests after picking up a knock during Wednesday night’s 1-1 draw between the two clubs.
The game kicks off at 12.45pm and is live on Sky Sports One.
