Arsenal aim to extend excellent Emirates record against Liverpool

In-form Arsenal, odds-on 17/20 to claim the spoils with Coral, host Liverpool, 16/5, in a fascinating fixture only intensified by the backdrop of both teams’ race for a top four spot.

Raheem Sterling’s contract sage also continues to rumble on, and should add an extra dimension, as the Reds rebel is being tipped to join the Gunners in summer.

Speaking ahead of the crucial clash, Sterling told media that links to the Emirates were “quite flattering”, and stated: “I try to just block everything out and do well. [The] next game is against Arsenal and I want to do my best. I won’t be hiding. As I said, I’m just happy to be playing football.”

The apparent wantaway England international broke his Three Lions duck last time out, and also bagged a brace in Liverpool’s dramatic 5-1 demolition of the Arsenal at Anfield last term.

Sterling was sensational in that outing, and is 14/5 to be instrumental again anytime, or 18/1 to be an even bigger thorn in Arsenal’s side and score two or more.

If Brendan Rodgers’ Reds are to retain their top players, securing Champions League football is a must, and this duel could well prove decisive.

The visitors will be without banned duo Steven Gerrard and Martin Sktrel, but sharpshooter Daniel Sturridge and midfield engine man Jordan Henderson have both been in good goalscoring form lately, and are 7/1 and 14/1 to strike anytime respectively.

Liverpool have triumphed in five of their last six on the road, keeping a clean sheet in all of those outings. With the Anfield outfit available at 11/2 to shut out hosts Arsenal, the Gunners will need their firepower to be on top form to breach a bullish Reds backline.