Arsenal will travel to Merseyside to face Liverpool at the Anfield on Saturday lunch time, where the Gunners will be hoping to consolidate their lead at the top.

The Gunners face a series of tough fixtures in Feb-March that could define their season, and the game at Anfield hold paramount importance to both the side. Liverpool will be looking to cement their place in the top four with a victory, while the Reds have an outside chance of challenging for the title as well.

In defence, Kieran Gibbs is expected to start on the left hand side in place of Nacho Monreal. Skipper Thomas Vermaelen is fit too, but Wenger in all probability will start with his trusted pair of Koscielny and Mertesacker.

In midfield, Jack Wilshere is still doubtful but could play some part coming from the bench. Wenger therefore could continue with Oxlade Chamberlain in the central midfield role alongside Arteta.

Thomas Rosicky may come in on the right hand side and his energy would be vital for the team going forward, with Lukas Podolski could be the unfortunate one to miss out. Giroud will start as lone striker, supported by Ozil and Cazorla from behind.

Prediction: 1-1; Liverpool have an impressive home record while Arsenal are in form too having won six of their last seven matches.