There’s a rather unusual dilemma facing Arsenal supporters this afternoon. Liverpool host Manchester City at Anfield, and for once, plenty of Gooners might find themselves cheering on the Merseysiders.
Arsenal did their part yesterday, eventually overcoming Leeds United 2-1 after a thoroughly uncomfortable afternoon at the Emirates.
Now attention turns to two clubs with their own title ambitions, and a result that could have an important bearing on Arsenal’s early position in the Premier League.
Why a Liverpool win might suit Arsenal best
Following Saturday’s hard-fought victory over Leeds, Arsenal have 15 points from six matches.
Manchester City also have 15 but from five matches. City have started with five consecutive league victories and arrive at Anfield looking to maintain their perfect record. Should City win, they would move three points clear of Arsenal.
A draw would still take City one point ahead, although both teams dropping points might appeal to supporters looking at the longer title race.
But a Liverpool victory would leave City level with Arsenal on 15 points, while taking Liverpool to 12.
In purely immediate terms, that looks the most favourable outcome for Arsenal, even if it would bring Liverpool closer to the leading pair.
(Photo by Alex Pantling/Getty Images)
Arsenal must concentrate on their own performances
There’s also the small matter of Liverpool’s ability to challenge for the title themselves.
Anfield has never been an easy destination for visiting teams, and Liverpool will be eager to remind everyone that they remain serious contenders.
Interestingly, Dan Smith predicted a 2-1 Liverpool victory in his weekend Premier League predictions, having also correctly anticipated Arsenal’s 2-1 win over Leeds.
Perhaps Dan will complete an impressive double!
Ultimately, however, yesterday’s Arsenal performance demonstrated that Arteta has plenty to address regardless of what happens on Merseyside. The Gunners showed resilience, but they cannot expect to recover from poor starts every weekend.
With so much football still to be played, today’s result won’t decide the title race. It could, however, provide an early psychological boost.
For this afternoon at least, perhaps the old saying about the enemy of your enemy being your friend applies.
So, Gooners, what’s your preferred result at Anfield? A Liverpool victory or a draw? Unless, of course, you’re secretly hoping for a Man City win…
Join the debate in the Just Arsenal comments below.
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