Arsenal make their way to Anfield for another huge clash as one of their three remaining Premier League matches this season.
The Gunners are unable to win the Premier League, with Liverpool already crowned champions, but there is still Champions League qualification up for grabs.
With Arsenal looking to end the season strong, there was some interesting team news for Mikel Arteta at Anfield.
Declan Rice’s absence brought about some questions over his availability and potential injury concerns, along with Jurrien Timber.
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Declan Rice and Jurrien Timber miss out on Arsenal clash with Liverpool
Following Arsenal’s disappointing defeat to PSG in midweek, attention has quickly turned to finishing the season as strongly as possible.
The Gunners will be looking for a response at Anfield against their title rivals, proving they are good enough to be involved in the conversation at the top next season.
With the team news that followed, Arteta was forced into some changes, which included Declan Rice and Jurrien Timber.
The reason for the pair being out was explained by Arteta pre-match, who said: “Him and Jurrien are not fit – Declan couldn’t even train so he’s injured unfortunately and couldn’t make the game.”
It saw Mikel Merino replace Rice and Ben White come in for Timber in the Arsenal side, with a big display needed to ensure Arsenal walk away with all three points.
Mikel Merino finally has chance to show why Arsenal signed him
It’s been a difficult season for Mikel Merino at Arsenal, albeit it hasn’t been his fault.
The midfielder struggled at the start through injury, while his return to the side in the second half of the season has been overshadowed by having to take up a role as a makeshift centre-forward.
Merino’s long-term future won’t be as a striker, so he is now looking to stake his claim in the team as a midfielder.
The Spaniard will have some competition next season, with Arsenal set to sign Martin Zubimendi from Real Sociedad.
So, with an opportunity to impress, Merino will want to make the midfield role his own for next season.
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