Arsenal FC vs. Liverpool FC: Caroll and Suarez to Test the Gunners Defense

The last time these two sides played was at Anfield in August, on the very first day of the EPL season, where a spirited Arsenal side fought back to draw 1-1, thanks to an own goal from Pepe Reina in injury time.

A lot has changed since.

Liverpool have a new manager in Kenny Dalglish, who has a much more attack-minded approach than his predecessor Roy Hodgson, as well as some new names in the starting lineup.

Beating this determined Liverpool side will not be easy—King Kenny's side has beaten both Manchester United and Manchester City by three goals. 

Arsenal have won just once in their last four Premier League outings; however, they are unbeaten in their last 14 league games.

Therefore, a win for the visitors could be a tough ask.

Arsenal's ability to control the game from the outset will be key, and their defending against Suarez and Carroll must be spot on. 

Arsenal are likely to field a fragile-looking defense. Injuries have not helped their cause. Having said that, Arsenal have only conceded one goal at the Emirates in their last seven games and Arsene Wenger will be counting on his defense to do the job against Liverpool. 

Thomas Vermaelen, one of Arsenal's key defenders, will not be fit to face Liverpool, but Wenger has confirmed that the Belgian defender is back in full training after missing most of the season with tendon problems.

"Djourou and Wojciech are question marks. Will they be fit? That all has still to be decided. We have two more days to find out. It could be a possibility that they could be available," Wenger was quoted as saying on Arsenal TV.  

Liverpool are in the hunt for a European spot next season and are currently in sixth place in the Premier League.

In order to stand any real chance of catching Tottenham, they will have to get a favorable result at the Emirates on Sunday. 

For Arsenal, every game is a must-win game if they intend on catching Manchester United. A defeat could end their slim chances of winning the title.

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