1) Liverpool find themselves in flux
In recent years Arsenal, seemingly in constant recalibration, have reliably come off second-best to Liverpool. But the leaders will begin Sunday’s match at the Emirates 11 points clear of Jürgen Klopp’s side, albeit having played a game more, and face opponents who badly need to get on a run. Liverpool are the ones in flux, Sadio Mané’s departure appearing to have had a profound impact, and can no longer be sure of turning this season into a one-two with Manchester City. One remarkable stat is that Arsenal have not scored against Liverpool in their last six meetings across all competitions, but anyone watching Leandro Trossard plunder a hat-trick at Anfield last weekend would fear for the visitors’ defence against a rampant attack led by Gabriel Jesus. It has been well documented that second place looks up for grabs this time around: this could be the time Mikel Arteta and company begin the changing of the guard in earnest. Nick Ames
