Arsenal vs. Liverpool Preview

Wednesday evening’s game at the Emirates Stadium sees Arsenal host Liverpool in the on-going battle to secure Champions League qualification for next season.

The Gunners go in to the game on the back of their 3-2 win over Brighton and Hove Albion in the fourth round of the FA Cup at the weekend; a result that followed their demolition of West Ham United in the league seven days ago.

That result took Arsene Wenger’s men to within four points of North London rivals Tottenham Hotspur, who currently occupy fourth spot in the division, and put an end to a run of three games without a win.

Captain Thomas Vermaelen is set to return to the heart of the Arsenal defence, with Theo Walcott, Santi Cazorla and Jack Wilshere also set to be given starting berths after beginning the Saturday’s visit to the Amex Stadium on the bench.

Following his winning strike in that game, Walcott is now on seventeen goals for the season and is priced at 7.0 (6/1) with a number of firms to add to that tally with the opening goal, while Olivier Giroud, who has four in his last two appearances is a 7.5 (13/2) shot.

The home win is 2.45 (29/20) with Bet Victor, with Liverpool available at 3.5 (5/2). The draw is 3.25 (9/4) with Stan James.

Liverpool are aiming to bounce back from Sunday’s shock 3-2 defeat to League One side Oldham Athletic in their FA Cup fourth round tie.

They currently sit a place behind Arsenal, but would overtake them if they win the match by four or more goals.

Brendon Rodgers may recall goalkeeper Pepe Reina and defenders Jose Enrique and Glen Johnson, who have all returned to full fitness, whilst captain Steven Gerrard is likely to start after coming off the bench at the weekend.

Top scorer Luis Suarez is currently two behind Manchester United’s Robin Van Persie in the race for the Premier League Golden Boot, and is 7.0 (6/1) to get the first goal of the game.