Liverpool face a monumental challenge this Thursday as they travel to face Premier League leaders Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium. The high-stakes encounter pits the reigning champions, who have hit a rocky patch, against a Gunners side riding a wave of momentum at the summit of the table.
Match Details and How to Watch
The crucial Premier League fixture is scheduled for Thursday, January 8, with kick-off at 8pm at Arsenal's home ground. For fans in the UK, the match will be broadcast live on Sky Sports Main Event and Sky Sports Premier League. Coverage typically begins at 7pm.
Viewers with compatible 4K sets can also watch the action on Sky Sports Ultra HDR. For those preferring to stream, the Sky Go app allows subscribers to watch on mobile devices, tablets, or laptops. Alternatively, a flexible NOW Sports Membership offers daily or monthly access to Sky Sports channels without a long-term contract.
Form Guide and Stakes
Mikel Arteta's Arsenal enter this match in formidable form, sitting 14 points clear of their rivals after a run of five consecutive league victories. Their latest was a 3-2 win over Bournemouth last Saturday.
In stark contrast, Arne Slot's Liverpool are struggling to find a winning formula. The Reds have drawn their last two matches, including a dramatic 2-2 draw with Fulham where a 97th-minute equaliser from Harrison Reed denied them victory. This leaves them trailing significantly in the title race.
Team News and Key Absences
Liverpool's preparations have been hampered by significant issues in attack. Alexander Isak is out with a broken leg, while Mohamed Salah is away on AFCON duty. The fitness of striker Hugo Ekitike is being closely monitored after he missed the Fulham game.
Florian Wirtz is expected to start despite being substituted last time out, with Cody Gakpo likely to lead the line if Ekitike is not passed fit.
For Arsenal, Declan Rice has proven his fitness by scoring twice against Bournemouth and will be central in midfield. Kai Havertz should also be available after being rested as a precaution. However, the home side will be without defenders Riccardo Calafiori and Cristhian Mosquera due to muscle and ankle problems respectively.
This clash represents a critical juncture in the season. For Arsenal, it's a chance to solidify their commanding lead. For Liverpool, it's a must-win game to reignite their faltering title defence and close the daunting gap at the top.
