Liverpool vs. Arsenal Match Preview: Gunners face uphill challenge against flying Reds

Jürgen Klopp is expected to rest a number of key players for Liverpool’s Carabao Cup clash with Arsenal on Wednesday.

The Reds have much bigger things to worry about though than the ‘Mickey Mouse Cup’, like winning their first league title since 1990. Defeat against Arsenal then wouldn’t be the biggest disaster in the world. That said, it serves a purpose. It gives fringe players game time and a chance to impress Klopp. Gomez, Keita and Lallana, who’ve rarely featured this season, are all likely to start. Origi will probably lead the line and he’s 11/2 to open the scoring.

Whether Liverpool win or not, this result will not define their season. But it will be a huge barometer of how far they’ve come under Klopp. A side that can challenge on all fronts domestically and in Europe. Something Arsenal fans can only dream of right now. And while Klopp is lauded by the Anfield faithful, Gunners fans are already calling for Unai Emery’s head.

The Spaniard’s decision to name Granit Xhaka has come back to bite him on the a**, who’d have thought it eh? Xhaka was substituted during Sunday’s two all draw with Crystal Palace much to the delight of the Emirates crowd who cheered and jeered their club captain off the pitch. Of course the hot headed midfielder responded exactly how you’d expect, by swearing, cupping his ears and walking straight down the tunnel. It’ll probably come as no surprise to read that Xhaka won’t feature at Anfield. Neither will the likes of David Luiz or Aubameyang who are both being rested.

Emery selected a blend of youth and experience for Arsenal’s 5-0 win over Nottingham Forest in the last round and he’s expected to field a similar team at Anfield. But it remains to be seen whether they’ll have enough about them to see off a strong Liverpool side.

Martinelli has scored five goals in seven appearances and he’s 9/4 to score anytime.

Liverpool head into Wednesday’s clash having already beaten Arsenal at home this season. The Reds were 3-1 victors back in August and it’s 15/1 for a repeat scoreline.

The hosts are 21/20 to win in 90 minutes which looks a great price considering Liverpool have not lost a domestic game since January. Arsenal are as big as 16/5 and the draw is 3/1.