Former Arsenal midfielder Paul Merson believes that the Gunners’ defence will let them down against Liverpool this evening.

Writing in his prediction column for Sky Sports, the pundit says manager Unai Emery hasn’t improved the London club’s leaky backline so far, and they will be found out against the Reds:

“I can’t see anything but a Liverpool win. I think this is the day Arsenal show some big cracks. I just think the defence is terrible, all over the place, and no different to what it was before.”

Much may depend on the fitness of Hector Bellerin. If the Spaniard is fit, it would allow Stephan Lichsteiner to move over to left-back and ensure Granit Xhaka can play in his best position in midfield.

With Matteo Guendouzi suspended, Emery would probably like to have the Swiss international back alongside Lucas Torreira in order to provide a protective screen for Arsenal’s defence.

It could be a case of whose attack is more potent tonight. Liverpool have scored 20 goals in 10 league games while the Gunners have bagged 24.  The bookmakers will certainly be getting a few bets for a high scoring game.

Sky Bet have the best odds for Arsenal winning 3-2 at 28/1 while a 2-2 draw is 11/1 with Betfred. If you really think it will be a goal fest, a 4-3 Gunners victory is 90/1 with BetVictor.