Date: 21st December 2014 at 10:47am
Written by:

As we approach today’s pivotal clash with Liverpool, it’s time we talk tactics. Clashes of this magnitude are often won by marginal deficits, and I expect nothing less today. That being said, Wenger simply must get his tactics right, and that includes key matchups all throughout the pitch. Assigning the wrong player to a task can have considerable repercussions and Wenger must be wary of who he plays and where. The XI almost picks itself, with the exception of the returning Chambers (not sure if he will start though), and I expect nearly the same team that beat Newcastle to line up at Anfield.

Both sides possess firepower going forward but suffer from shaky backlines, so the match lends itself to a good tactical duel. Arsenal will need to be sure to be strong in key areas in order to ensure success in this match. Let’s look at three key battles Arsenal should pay most attention to.

Alexis Sanchez vs Martin Skrtel

Much has been made of Alexis Sanchez’ impact at Arsenal and many believe he could be the difference between the two sides. I would agree with these sentiments, as I think Liverpool don’t have an answer for him defensively. Whether it be Skrtel, Toure, or Lovren, the matchup favours Alexis all day and Arsenal must find a way to get him a good position to attack. He will cause them all sorts of problems with his direct running and trickery and whoever finds themself with the unenviable task of marking him will be in for a long day. He should have a field day against this back line and I expect more of the same from him.

Raheem Sterling vs Per Mertesacker

Unfortunately for Arsenal, the same could be argued at the other end. With Balotelli out (not that he really makes a difference these days) I expect Sterling to line up centrally again (he scored twice against Bournemouth from that position and played against United a centre forward). This will mean plenty of pace for Mertesacker to deal with, and that frightens me to be honest. Not sure if Wenger will stick with Debuchy in centre back now that Chambers had returned from suspension, but I sure hope he does. I would prefer Debuchy to play as well as Bellerin in the hopes of countering Sterling’s pace. If Arsenal can force him right, I am much more comfortable with the pair of Debuchy and Bellerin tracking him. Whatever Arsenal do, they cannot, I repeat, cannot, allow Mertesacker to be isolated with Sterling.

Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain vs Jordan Henderson

The centre of the park will be crucial on a whole, but these two will have quite a task keeping each other quite. I like Chambo in this matchup, as he is incredibly hard to stop when he picks up a head of steam. Henderson has been solid for the Reds this year though and a lot of what they create goes through him. Arsenal will need Flamini and Cazorla to chip in as well just the Reds will rely on Gerrard and Lucas, so expect to see a fiercely competitive midfield war. Arsenal will of course need a performance from the whole team and the players who aren’t named here will be important as well. COYG

Click below to watch the Premier League LIVE!

BT Sport

 

Comments are closed.