Mark Lawrenson has predicted Liverpool to defeat Arsenal 2-1 when the two sides meet at the Emirates on Saturday.
The BBC pundit shared that the thought the Gunners were asking for trouble when facing the Reds as they had a soft centre which allowed their opposition to carve out chances against them.
Lawrenson revealed that while Unai Emery had made an encouraging start with Arsenal, he expected Jurgen Klopp’s side to be a little bit too much for them.
“Both of these teams look dangerous when they come forward but at the back Liverpool are stronger, and they look a much better all-round team than they did 12 months ago,” wrote the pundit for BBC Sport.
“Arsenal still have something of a soft centre, and the opposition always seems to create chances against them – which is asking for trouble against Liverpool.
“The Gunners won 11 games in a row before they drew at Crystal Palace on Sunday but they have not played a top side since they lost to Manchester City and Chelsea at the start of the season.
“I think Liverpool will have a little bit too much for them but, even if Arsenal do lose, this has still been a very encouraging start by their new manager Unai Emery.”
OPINION
Arsenal shouldn’t be underestimated but Lawrenson is probably right to suggest that they are there for the taking. The Gunners clearly aren’t known for their defensive strength and the Reds could have several golden opportunities to punish them for this weakness. However Emery’s side have proven that they are capable of racking up a string of impressive results due to their ability going forward. Given that the game is at the Emirates, Liverpool should know it will be a difficult task getting all three points. The Reds have looked very impressive, in terms of results, this season but know they have to be at their best in order to slay the Gunners. The Reds’ attackers have been put under the spotlight this season, rather harshly, for not looking as clinical as they were last season. Yet no one will question Mohamed Salah, Roberto Firmino or Sadio Mane if they take the opportunity to tear Arsenal’s weak defence apart on Saturday and boost their goal numbers.
