Whatever the result, we’ll learn a lot about our team this afternoon…
Liverpool fans across the world will have been eagerly anticipating today’s game, arguably since the full-time whistle rang against Manchester United almost a fortnight ago. This is when we learn what our team is made of.
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There are a number of major questions that will be answered for supporters over the course of 90 minutes, and we’ve collated the biggest pre-match talking points in our list below. Here’s hoping for good news for the Reds!
5) Kolo Toure or Dejan Lovren?
Martin Skrtel’s absence through suspension has left Brendan Rodgers with a huge selection headache ahead of today’s game. Does he go with the experience of Kolo Toure, or the potential quality of Dejan Lovren? Certainly, if ever there was a game for the latter to prove he’s worthy of his £20m price tag, it’s this one. In just a couple of hours, we will find out who Rodgers has gone for. Whoever misses out – do they still have a future at the club?
4) Is there a future for Mario Balotelli?
Speaking of futures… with Daniel Sturridge still a doubt following his hip injury, what will be of Mario Balotelli, as well as his fellow strikers Fabio Borini and Rickie Lambert? If the trio miss out on the game today, then this will be just another indication that Brendan Rodgers does not see a future for any of them at the club. The Italian played well during the Anfield charity match last weekend, but can he translate that form to a competitive environment?
3) Can Daniel Sturridge be the main man?
If Sturridge does start – and most predictions have him doing so – then he needs to play well. It’s hardly his fault considering his recent injury record, but his inconsistencies since Luis Suarez’s departure have left many supporters brimming with frustration. A big performance with a decisive goal could help silence his critics and ensure that everybody knows just who our number one striker is, and who it will be beyond the end of the year.
2) Are we good enough to reach the top four?
Everything was looking so perfect two weeks ago. A 13-game unbeaten run had lifted us to fifth place and within two points of fourth place Manchester United, and the stage was set ahead of a decisive meeting with our old rivals at Anfield. Even a draw would have sufficed, maintaining the narrow gap heading into our final run of fixtures. Unfortunately, it wasn’t to be, and now we find out if we’re capable of responding. We don’t have a great recent record at Arsenal, but we really, really need this one!
1) Is Raheem Sterling still interested?
All the talk in the build-up to the game has been regarding Raheem Sterling. No one other than the player himself – and possibly his agent – are likely to know the truth regarding his current situation. The best solution? Concentrate on the football! It’s time Sterling stopped people talking about contracts and money, and got them to start talking about how good he is at football. He’ll be crucial to any success we enjoy today, so let’s hope he’s ready for it!
