Jamie Redknapp on Arsenal
Image credit: Getty Images
Former Liverpool midfielder Jamie Redknapp has emphasised that Arsenal must produce an exceptional second half of the season to overtake Liverpool in the Premier League title race.
The Gunners delivered a commanding response to recent setbacks with a resounding 5-1 victory over Crystal Palace on Saturday. The win helped Mikel Arteta’s side bounce back from consecutive frustrating draws against Fulham and Everton, reducing the gap to second-placed Chelsea to just two points.
Arsenal’s hopes of gaining further ground rested on North London rivals Tottenham Hotspur as they hosted Liverpool. However, the Reds maintained their dominance in the title race with an emphatic 6-3 win at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, extending their lead over Arsenal to six points.
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Liverpool, widely regarded as title favourites this season, could widen the gap further by winning their outstanding fixture against Everton, which was postponed earlier this month.
Arsenal celebration
Arsenal put five past Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park (Image credit: Getty Images)
The injury to Arsenal star Bukayo Saka has raised concerns about the Gunners’ squad depth, with Jamie Redknapp highlighting Liverpool’s superior bench strength as a critical factor in the title race.
Speaking on Sky Sports, he said: “They’re [Arsenal] going to work on the basis where Liverpool will drop points… Liverpool, of course, they’re the team right now that’s in great form. But we all know how quickly form can disappear. They’ve actually been brilliant because they’ve done it with a few injuries as well.
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“But what Liverpool have got that I think Arsenal still need – and I think if they can do it in January it’ll give them even more of a chance – so many people can come off the bench to make a difference, make an impact [for Liverpool]. Arsenal are just short in that area.
“I still think they need another striker, or another forward player… Just to add some goals and a bit of experience. Just to bolster that forward line. If Saka is going to be out however long, have they got someone to fill that void?”
Arsenal will look to keep their title aspirations alive with a Boxing Day clash at home against Ipswich Town. On the same day, Liverpool will aim to maintain their stronghold at the top when they host Leicester City at Anfield.
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