Arsene Wenger Hopeful As Gunners Battle Depleted Liverpool
Arsenal Manager, Arsene Wenger is hopeful of a win today as Arsenal meet Liverpool in a crucial premier league game. His hope of a win is hing on the fact that his side will be meeting a depleted Liverpool side.
Liverpool captain Jordan Henderson remains out with a foot injury, while Daniel Sturridge is absent because of a hip strain. Dejan Lovren has not played since 31 January but is back in training and will be assessed ahead of the game.
Mesut Ozil was sent home from Arsenal’s training session on Thursday with an illness but is expected to be fit for today’s match. Aaron Ramsey and Laurent Koscielny return but Mohamed Elneny is out for three weeks with an ankle injury.
“Ever since commentating on the epic 1989 title clincher, this has been one of my favourite fixtures. This season it’s crucial for both managers,” Jonathan Pearce said.
“Jurgen Klopp is getting criticism for the first time. Few were complaining before Christmas.”Philippe Coutinho’s injury, Sadio Mane’s absence, a thin squad and moral-crumpling cup defeats have eroded ambitions for this season. But Klopp must, and will, be given time.
“It’s Arsene Wenger’s 50th and possibly last game against Liverpool, who haven’t done the double against him since 2000.”A win here, a big display against Bayern and a cup victory against Lincoln won’t silence Wenger’s critics. They should be wary of what they wish for.”
“I have no idea what happens in the summer. It is not only Daniel, but a lot of players. Daniel was not in training for eight or nine days because of a virus infection,” Klopp said.
“We have to bring him back to the best shape possible and then bring this season to an end as successfully as possible. Then we will make decisions.
“A lot of things will influence this and we can speak about it when it is time.”Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger on his future and being linked with Barcelona: “Of course I am not looking for jobs in other clubs or jobs off other people.
“I am focused on trying to improve and always trying to see what you can do better and reinvent yourself.”I have been here for 20 years and I had many times the opportunity to leave so I don’t think I have to convince you that my preference has always been Arsenal.”The club is free to make the decision it wants and I will respect that.”
