Lauren looks ahead to Sunday’s crucial Arsenal vs Liverpool clash

It’s been a solid start to the Premier League campaign for Arsenal with two wins and two clean sheets to their name against Manchester United and Leeds. Now, however, a big challenge awaits them as they get ready to battle Liverpool at Anfield this weekend.

In a recent chat with AceOdds, former Arsenal star Lauren gave his thoughts on this game as we get closer and closer to kick-off.

Now is the moment to grab three points at Anfield

Arsenal haven’t won at Anfield in the Premier League since 2012, but Lauren believes that now is the moment to grab three points at Anfield.

"You have to aim for three points and not think about a draw. Especially in the early moments of the season, when Liverpool, Arsenal, none of the players are at a hundred percent because you need a few more games to be at your best level."

"The momentum is good for Arsenal. They beat Man Utd away from home, and got three points against Leeds. I believe now is the moment to go and grab three points at Anfield."

Lauren is well aware that it won’t be an easy match at Anfield, however, he hopes the situation around Alexander Isak can distract Liverpool, if the transfer saga hasn’t been solved before the match.

"It will not be an easy game but I believe we are in a good position, mentally and in terms of quality. Also the way we play, and some players have been there for many years and been in this same situation. We are in a position and ready to win against Liverpool and hopefully go on to win the league."

"We hope the Isak situation can distract Liverpool but I just care about Arsenal getting the three points. It's all about the 90 minutes on the pitch. Sometimes problems are there but players don't care about that. Competitive players want to win."

Arsenal are currently priced at 12/5 to keep their 100% record going, and by using our bet calculator, you can see how much you stand to win if you decide to back Arteta’s men.

Arteta has to find a good mix of players

Speaking about the tactical side of the game, Lauren made it clear what needs to happen in order for the Gunners to find success against the champions.

“Against Liverpool, you're going to be against a team that will force you to defend in a low block so you need players that can do well in transitions going forward."

"But when you have the ball, you need players who can find the passing lanes and connect play with two-three passes, and get into positions which allow you to dominate possession and provide good passes to the strikers in the final third."

"So it has to be a good mix. Getting players who can hold the ball in the middle but also when we have to defend in a low block, you need to have quick players on the flanks who can attack in transition."

The players on the bench can make a difference

Lauren adds that he really believes Arsenal´s bench can be crucial this season with the club bringing in a handful of high quality players who can really make a difference.

He points out Eze and Madueke as two players who he believes can step in and deliver when needed.

“Sometimes last season, we signed good players, however the signings this season are exactly what Arsenal needed.”

“When Odegaard is not available, you know that Eze can come in. If Saka is not there, Madueke can fill the gap. Madueke is always asking for the ball and is really damaging the opponent.”

“They have many options now, because the players on the bench can really make a difference. I am not saying Sterling is a bad player, but the players now can really make a difference.”

The match between Liverpool and Arsenal kicks off at Anfield this Sunday at 4:30 pm.

Read more as Jermaine Pennant gives his thoughts on the possible departure of a Liverpool youngster