“It’s a must-see game” - Jeff Stelling predicts scoreline as Arsenal take on Liverpool in Premier League clash
Former Sky Sports presenter Jeff Stelling has given his prediction for the high-profile Premier League clash between Arsenal and Liverpool this weekend. The pundit backed the Reds to secure a narrow 1-0 victory over the Gunners away from home.
Mikel Arteta's men are set to host Arne Slot's side at the Emirates Stadium tomorrow (Sunday, October 27). With the two sides both shooting for the title, all eyes will be on this fixture to see who makes a strong statement.
Jeff Stelling appeared on talkSPORT to preview the highly anticipated encounter, dropping a couple of interesting notes. The pundit reckoned that it is indeed a game to look forward to while assessing the two clubs.
“A top-of-the-table clash between Liverpool and Arsenal. It’s a must-see game," he said. "No question about it. Partly due to injuries and suspensions, Arsenal, in my view, haven’t hit the heights this season that they achieved last time."
“If they were to lose this home game against Liverpool, they would be seven points behind the Merseysiders, and that’s a huge gap, even at this stage of the season. Liverpool have not always been that easy on the eye and they’ve ground out one or two results. But they just keep on winning," he added.
The former Sky Sports Presenter went on to state that the absence of William Saliba, who picked up a red card against Bournemouth last time out, could create problems for Arsenal in defence. He also backed Liverpool to come out on top in Sunday's encounter.
“For me, the difference between the two sides this weekend could be the absence of Saliba in the heart of that Arsenal defence. It’s for that reason I’m going to go Arsenal nil, Liverpool one," said the pundit.
Stelling's prediction: Arsenal 0-1 Liverpool.
Contrasting Arsenal and Liverpool's numbers in the Premier League this season
The two clubs have had a promising run in the Premier League this term, with the Reds coming out as the better side at the moment. They currently lead the table with 21 points in eight games, four points above the Gunners who occupy the third spot with 17 points.
So far, Arne Slot's side have recorded seven victories and one defeat to their name in the English top flight. Mikel Arteta's side, on the other hand, have won five, drawn two and lost one of their outings since the campaign kicked off in August.
Both sides have scored the same number of goals in the league (15), ranking them among the most potent attacking teams so far. Liverpool, however, takes the lead when it comes to defensive prowess. They have conceded the least number of goals in the division (3) while Arsenal have let in 8.