Liverpool vs Arsenal - Arteta aims to snatch 3 points at Anfield without Saka

Two of the Premier League's title contenders, Liverpool and Arsenal go head-to-head will lock horns at Anfield in what is the pick of the bunch in matchday three. This fixture, which pits last season's top two teams against each other, promises to be a thrilling encounter. Both sides have begun their campaigns with a perfect record, making this a high-stakes affair even at this early stage. 

Liverpool, under new manager Arne Slot, have been a force in attack, scoring freely in their opening matches. On the other hand, Mikel Arteta's Arsenal have built their success on a rock-solid defense, keeping clean sheets in both of their league games.

This match presents a fascinating contrast of styles: Liverpool's potent, free-flowing attack against Arsenal's disciplined and resilient backline. The outcome of this game could set the tone for the rest of their season and will be a major indicator of their title credentials. For bettors, this fixture is particularly enticing due to the fine margins and the potential for a high-scoring, back-and-forth affair.

Liverpool: W W

Arsenal: W W

• Both teams have perfect records to start the season, with two wins from two games.

• Liverpool have been prolific in attack, scoring seven goals in their first two matches, but have also conceded four.

• Arsenal's defense has been outstanding, keeping two clean sheets in their opening two league games.

The most likely outcome in this encounter is a 2-2 draw. Both teams have shown incredible attacking prowess and a vulnerability in defense. Liverpool's seven goals in two games highlight their offensive strength, but their four goals conceded show they are still finding their feet defensively. 

Meanwhile, Arsenal's two clean sheets are impressive, but they are also dealing with key injuries in attack, which could limit their output. Given that both encounters between these teams last season ended in 2-2 draws, it's a very plausible outcome that they will once again share the spoils in a high-scoring affair.

• The last two Premier League meetings between Liverpool and Arsenal at Anfield have ended in 2-2 draws.

• In the last six meetings across all competitions, both sides have one win each, with four draws.

• In Premier League history, this is the fixture with the second-most goals scored (198 goals in 66 matches), behind only Liverpool vs Tottenham (206).

• Liverpool's last league victory against Arsenal at Anfield came in September 2012.

• Liverpool Win: 11/10

• Draw: 5/2

• Arsenal Win: 23/10

Liverpool manager Arne Slot will be without Jeremie Frimpong, who is out until after the international break. There are also doubts over the fitness of Alexis Mac Allister, who is still fighting for fitness. Conor Bradley has recently returned from injury and is expected to start at right-back, a position that has been a selection dilemma for Slot.

Arsenal face some significant injury concerns heading into this match. Star player Bukayo Saka is ruled out for up to four weeks with a hamstring injury, while captain Martin Ødegaard is a major doubt due to a shoulder issue. Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus are also unavailable. The good news for Arsenal is the arrival of new signings Eberechi Eze and Noni Madueke, who are expected to fill the void and provide creativity in attack.

Liverpool (4-2-3-1): Alisson; Bradley, Konaté, Van Dijk, Kerkez; Gravenberch, Szoboszlai; Salah, Wirtz, Gakpo; Ekitiké

Arsenal (4-3-3): Raya; Timber, Saliba, Gabriel, Calafiori; Merino, Zubimendi, Rice; Madueke, Gyökeres, Eze

• Tip 1 - Result: Draw

• Tip 2 - Over/Under 2.5 goals: Over 2.5 goals

• Tip 3 - Both Teams to Score: Yes

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