Arsenal take on Liverpool at the Emirates on Friday night. A win would lift Arsene Wenger’s side above the Reds and back into the top four.

Both sides league aims are now to secure Champions League football next season after being well and truly blown away by runaway leaders Manchester City.

Jurgen Klopp’s side thrashed Arsenal in the reverse fixture. A 4-0 victory back in August, which the Arsenal manager claims will hurt for the rest of his life.

TEAM NEWS

The Gunners will be without forward Olivier Giroud.

The Frenchman hobbled off during Tuesday’s League Cup quarter-final win over West Ham and is set to miss the whole of the festive period with a hamstring injury. Aaron Ramsey is also out.

As for the visitors, Liverpool have their ‘big four’ all fit for the match at the Emirates. Sadio Mane, Philipe Coutinho, Roberto Firmino and top scorer Mohamed Salah will be a tough test for the Arsenal back line.

The Reds have welcomed back Emre Can from suspension, but Daniel Sturridge and Joel Matip remain fitness doubts.

Left-back Alberto Moreno is also out – he’s still recovering from an ankle problem.

Liverpool thrashed Arsenal in August

PREDICTED ARSENAL XI

Aaron Ramsey’s absence means Jack Wilshere is expected to continue in the heart of the midfeild. The 25 year-old has impressed this season, but Liverpool could be considered his first ‘big test’.

Shkodran Mustafi is back in contention and should resume at the back. Meanwhile, Danny Welbeck is knocking on the door after scoring the winner against West Ham in midweek.

Sead Kolasinac is also likely to come in for the Ainsley Maitland-Niles.

Arsenal XI: Cech; Bellerin, Mustafi, Koscielny, Monreal, Kolasinac; Wilshere, Xhaka; Sanchez, Ozil, Lacazette.

MATCH PREDICTION

A difficult evening is expected. Liverpool have been impressive of late and when on song their front four are arguably the most deadline quartet in the league.

Prediction: 2-2

Gooners, what are you predictions ahead of the match? Let us know in the comments…