Arsenal v Liverpool: Ronny Goodlass talks tactics

Apr 5 2008

ANOTHER interesting battle of wits is in prospect between two sides with one eye on the Champions League quarter-final second leg next week.

However league points are also important, especially bearing in mind one of the teams is guaranteed to see their Champions League dream ended and will not then want to miss out on a top- four finish in the league.

Defence

Manuel Almunia was signed as deputy to Jens Lehmann, but has now established himself as the number one.

A good shot-stopper who has turned in some decent performances, he remains vulnerable on crosses and his indecision can at times be costly. Emmanuel Eboue has played right side of midfield, but in the right back position he likes to push forward at every opportunity.

William Gallas was part of the controversial deal that took Ashley Cole to Chelsea – and Arsenal certainly got the better half of the deal. His experience is invaluable in a young side. A resolute and quick defender, he is an excellent reader of the game.

Kolo Toure arrived as a winger but after being converted to a centre-half, he has never looked back. Pace and determination make him the perfect ally for Gallas. Their partnership is one of the quickest in the Premier League.

Gael Clichy provides Arsenal with balance down the left and his consistency marks him out as one of the best in the Premier League. Great pace and workrate.

Midfield

Arsenal spotted the potential of Cesc Fabregas while he was a 16-year-old at Barcelona.

Two months after signing he became Arsenal’s youngest goal-scorer. Absolute quality and like all good players, he always seem to have plenty of time on the ball. Great vision allied to an equally impressive first touch means that the Spanish international is a real influence on matches, especially when you add in the 13 goals he has scored this term.

Alexander Hleb took time to settle, but is now an integral part of the Arsenal attacking midfield. Good close control means he can run at pace with the ball and it is all too easy for players to put an arm on him and give away a penalty.

Mathieu Flamini made his debut at Everton in 2004 and has a bit of everything to his game. Technically a very competent player.

Attack

Manager Arsene Wenger may opt for a different variation in attack.

Theo Walcott could have been introduced earlier in midweek, but could get a start today. Arrived in a blaze of publicity from Southampton, but has had to bide his time. Playing more games this season and that is bring more experience. His pace and direct style are a worry for defenders.

Emmanuel Adebayor had to wait until Thierry Henry departed to show what he was really capable of. Twenty-five goals is a tremendous return this season. He adds another dimension to the Arsenal attack with his heading ability, but also holds the ball up well to allow his colleagues to get in on the act. Fabregas, in particular, has profited from this. Adebayor uses his height and movement to unsettle defenders.

Dangerman

EMMANUEL ADEBAYOR – in the best form of his career and will be a danger in and around the penalty area.

Overall verdict

Some players will no doubt be rested with Tuesday’s game in mind, but with it will be no lose of a tight game again with another draw in prospect.