Arsenal has clawed things back after going on a horrendous run of just one win in seven games, knocking them off the top of the league, crashing out of the FA Cup, and now battling to lead the top four races.

Liverpool are on top of their game. The Kops are in the final of the Carabao Cup, through to the third round of the FA Cup, and five points clear at the top of the Premier League table. Liverpool is the team to beat this season.

Arsenal beat Crystal Palace 5-0 in their first league match of the year, then overcame a late surge from Nottingham Forest to win 2-1 in midweek. The result meant they’re above Aston Villa and Tottenham despite playing a game less.

Liverpool’s form is incredible, the atmosphere in the visitors’ camp is electrifying, and the news of Jurgen Klopp walking away from his role as the team’s head coach also added to the emotional situation at Liverpool; they want to win for their manager.

Arsenal isn’t creating enough chances; when they do, their forwards need to start converting the chances they get. Gabriel Jesus scored from a tight angle against Nottingham Forest on Tuesday after missing simpler chances earlier in the game.

In the absence of Mohammed Salah, Diogo Jota has stepped up, and he is leading the line quite well for the Reds. Luis Diaz is doing his bit too, but Darwin Nunez must stop frustrating fans with his poor conversation rate.

Arsenal will welcome back Takehiro Tomiyasu, whose Japan got knocked out of the Asian Cup on Saturday, but his return will be too soon for the visit of Liverpool. Thomas Partey suffered a setback following his recovery from injury; he will be out for some time again.

Arsenal’s fortune against Liverpool has improved over the last two seasons. The Gunners used to turn up against the Reds and get embarrassed, but Arsenal is unbeaten in the last three games against Liverpool in the league.

Liverpool will line up to attack and try to nail the Gunners early in the game. Trent Alexander Arnold will be restored to the starting lineup; in his absence, Connor Bradley shone brightly, but the young lad lost his father over the weekend and would be granted some days off.

Andy Robertson is back from his long-term injury too; he could start the game as well. Arsenal must not lose; a loss sends the Gunners eight points off the pace at the top; a draw is not a bad result for the Reds; Arsenal must not lose.

Verdict: Full-time draw