Originally posted by turbo_drift:
[b]Liverpool and Arsenal kick
the weekend off with a crucial meeting in the race for third
place..
Arsene Wenger has already masterminded a 3-0 win over The Reds in
the reverse fixture at Emirates Stadium, but more impressive were
two cup wins in the space of three days at Anfield in
January.
The 3-1 FA Cup win was even overshadowed by a memorable 6-3 victory
in the Carling Cup, and the Londoners will be hoping to make it a
remarkable hat-trick on Merseyside on Saturday.
The last time Arsenal won three times in a row at Anfield, Lord
Lucan had just disappeared, and Liverpool's hopes of finishing next
in line to Chelsea and Manchester United are also likely to do a
vanishing act if they fail to prevent a repeat.
Perhaps a change in ownership will spark a change in fortunes, as
Saturday's meeting is the first game since American businessmen Tom
Hicks and George Gillett completed their takeover at Anfield.
A victory would take The Reds two points ahead of Arsenal, although
the capital club would still enjoy a game in hand.
Gunners boss Wenger has welcomed the return of Emmanuel Adebayor as
the Togolese striker has completed a four-game suspension following
his role in the Carling Cup final brawl.
Starting alongside Adebayor could be Julio Baptista, and the
Brazilian is sure to relish a return to Anfield after his four-goal
haul in January.
Thierry Henry (groin and stomach), Robin van Persie (metatarsal)
and Theo Walcott (shoulder) are all expected to miss the rest of
the season so Arsenal's attacking options appear to be
limited.
Conversely, both Gael Clichy (hamstring) and Emmanuel Eboue (ankle)
took advantage of the international break to regain fitness so
Arsenal's defence will be strengthened.
In midfield, stand-in skipper Gilberto faces a late fitness test as
a result of a hip injury, and his possible absence could open the
door for young compatriot Denilson or new French international Abou
Diaby to play alongside Cesc Fabregas.
Liverpool team news to follow...
my prediction 1-3
Arsenal surely win at Anfield three times in one season, but the
race for third could remain finely balanced.
Player to watch: Emmanuel Adebayor[/b]
I hope ur prediction is right. I've got a feeling its either a
bore draw or either team will win.
but on positive note,glad to have eboue and clichy back for our
fullbacks.
