Liverpool could be without Wirtz for Arsenal's trip to Anfield
Arsenal's long wait for a win at Anfield could get a timely boost, with Liverpool facing a potential injury concern over Florian Wirtz ahead of the Premier League meeting this weekend.
Arsenal head to Merseyside off the back of a League Cup tie against Fleetwood Town, looking to end a run that has seen them fail to win at Anfield since 2012, when Mikel Arteta was still playing in midfield under Arsene Wenger. The long drought underlines just how difficult a venue it has been for the Gunners under multiple managers.
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Liverpool arrive in better form having beaten Brighton, the only side to have beaten Arsenal this season. The result suggested Arne Slot's side are starting to find consistency after an uneven start to the campaign, making the fixture a significant test for both teams.
Wirtz injury doubt
Wirtz impressed against Brighton, continuing to show the quality that has made him an increasingly important figure in Liverpool's side. According to Liverpool Echo, the German midfielder twisted his ankle during that match, and there are concerns the injury could be serious enough to keep him out for several days.
His availability for the Arsenal match has not been officially confirmed either way, but the doubt alone will be something Arteta's coaching staff monitor closely in the build up to the game. Losing a player of Wirtz's creativity would be a blow for Liverpool regardless of the opponent, let alone against an Arsenal side searching for a first Anfield win in over a decade.
Arteta chasing another milestone
Since taking over at Arsenal, Arteta has overturned a number of unwanted records and streaks, and ending the Anfield hoodoo would rank among the most significant. A win this weekend would also serve as a statement result in a Premier League campaign where Liverpool appear to be building momentum.
Any doubts over Liverpool's key personnel, Wirtz included, could work in Arsenal's favour, but nothing is guaranteed. Liverpool's victory over Brighton showed a team capable of grinding out results even without peak form, and Arsenal will need a strong, focused performance at Anfield no matter who features in the home side's XI.
Arsenal's preparations will continue through the week, with team news expected closer to kick off as both sides assess their options for what shapes up as one of the toughest away trips left on the fixture list this season.
