Arsenal will be in a fight at Anfield tomorrow evening, and if they want to come out on top against Liverpool, they must win their individual battles. So, where will the game be won and lost?

The Attack – Beating the offside trap

Liverpool are using an offside trap this season, most likely because of the introduction of VAR. Chelsea had two goals narrowly chalked off for offside in the European Super Cup final and you have to think that Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Alexandre Lacazette will be smart enough to stay onside.

Angled runs, timing and pace will be vital here. If they catch the Liverpool’s defence off guard, the frontline should be able to get in behind and with the front three’s pace, there’s a good chance of a one-on-one on Liverpool’s goal.

With Adrian not in the same league as Alisson as a goalkeeper, either, you would bank on either Lacazette or Aubameyang putting the chance away.

The Midfield – Protecting Ceballos (or Ozil) and winning individual one-on-ones

With timing runs absolutely vital, a player will need to be free to make the passes. Dani Ceballos could be that man or Mesut Ozil could be drafted in if fit. No matter who it is, they have to be protected.

Liverpool rely on having the likes of Jordan Henderson, Georginio Wijnaldum and Fabinho in the middle of the park who can tackle and make interceptions before attacks begin.

Matteo Guendouzi and Lucas Torreira or whoever starts in midfield must ensure they win their battles against these workhorses. Otherwise, they could be overrun and the front three will be starved of the service which could decide the game.

Defence – Protecting the channels

Mohomed Salah and Sadio Mane love to cut in to make runs in between the fullback and centre-backs. The best defences in the world have trouble keeping them out, and Sokratis and David Luiz will need support.

Ainsley Maitland-Niles and Nacho Monreal will have to be very disciplined and watch these inside runs so the Gunners are not cut open. The holding midfielders will also need to be alert to prevent passes into Roberto Firmino whose quick one-twos can set up chances for his teammates.

There is a lot to think about for manager Unai Emery, but all these things have to be done for a memorable win tomorrow. Whether the players can meet these demands, will determine the final score.