Arsenal fans breathed a sigh of relief after Jurgen Klopp confirmed that their “serial killer” Diogo Jota will miss Saturday’s (22 December) fixture at Anfield.
The Portuguese striker has been a constant thorn in the Gunners’ side, scoring eight goals and one assist in all competitions against them.
The last time he scored against them was in 2021, when Liverpool thrashed Arsenal 4-0 at home, but fans are delighted that he will not have the chance to extend his impressive record.
Klopp admitted the 27-year-old was close to a return but will not be available for the Reds after missing the last four Premier League games with a hamstring injury.
If either side wins the clash, they will finish the week at the top of the table, but a draw and an Aston Villa win over Sheffield United on Friday night (21 December) would mean neither team will lead the league on Christmas Day.
Arsenal have just one win in their last seven games in all competitions, but Mikel Arteta’s team will be desperate to increase their points tally to 42.
Liverpool will also be without Alexis Mac Allister, Joel Matip and long-term absentees Andy Robertson and Thiago Alcantara, but have been strengthened by the return of Ryan Gravenberch.
But Gunners fans are most concerned about Jota and are full of confidence on social media that they can get a rare result on Merseyside.