A classic match in England, with a lot of history and rivalry between the two heavyweights. Both teams have very good players in their ranks, and will be fighting for a top four finish this season. With a crunching tie at Anfield this Sunday, what will their combined XI look like?

Goalkeeper: Wojciech Szczesny

Wojciech Szczesny wins it here. At 24 years of age, Szczesny is a very promising goalkeeper with a lot of time to get better. He may have bad decisions sometimes with a lack of concentration, but he wins it here against Simon Mignolet. Mignolet's season hasn't been the best, he has made a lot of mistakes and was dropped against Manchester United.

Left-back: Keiran Gibbs

The English international is definitely on his way up. When fit, Gibbs looks a very promising player, and at 24 it is time he starts showing consistency. He wins it here because Liverpool haven't really stuck with a consistent left back this season, but Alberto Moreno does look good no doubt.

Centre-back: Dejan Lovren

Dejan Lovren has the potential to be a good signing for Liverpool. He did exceptionally well for Southampton last season, but hasn't been really up to it this year with Liverpool. He has the potential though and with time he will show his worth. It was close, but due to Mertesacker's dip in form Lovren just wins it.

Centre-back: Laurent Koscielny

Even though he is injured, it is just nonsense not to add him here. A world class central defender, Arsenal have really suffered without him. Even Per Mertesacker's performances havent been up to par without Laurent. A starter for any team.

Right-back: Mathieu Debuchy

Arsenal's new Frenchman, Debuchy was brought in from Newcastle United and looked like hes been with Arsenal all along. An experienced defender with great aerial ability and good going forward, Debuchy wins it here.

Right Midfield: Alexis Sanchez 

The little Chilean. What a player he turned out to be for Arsenal. A great buy for Arsene Wenger with similar qualities to Luis Suarez. Alexis has exceptional work rate, great control, trickery and pace. He has it all. 

Central Midfield: Steven Gerrard

A great professional and an example of loyalty.' Stevie G' is a great servant for Liverpool Football Club and English football. With his experience and loyalty, he gets the nod.

Central Midfield: Aaron Ramsey

It was a tough call, as Jordan Henderson's performances lately have really caught the eye. But the Welshman gets a place because of his exceptional finishing and engine. He may not play the game this week, but Aaron Ramsey's performances last season were top class and his performance agasint Galatasaray showed what he can do. A great midfielder with a lot of time to get even better. 

Left Midfield: Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain

With his recent performances and promise, The Ox starts in the line-up. He has been a real breath of fresh air for Arsenal with his pace. He plays on the wings and at central midfield, doing great at both. At 21-years-old, Oxlade-Chamberlan has a great future at Arsenal and for England. 

Forward: Raheem Sterling

Where would Liverpool be without Raheem Sterling's energy and pace? He is a real promising player and is having a great year for Liverpool. If they can hold on to him, he will be a great player for the club.

Forward: Olivier Giroud

With players like Mario Balotelli, Rickie Lambert and Danny Welbeck coming up against him, Giroud nicks it. The Frenchman has been in good form since coming back from a long term injury. He is a reliable centre forward with the ability to finish chances. Giroud plays better when the midfielders behind him are lively. 

Special mentions: Jordan Henderson, Mesut Ozil, Theo Walcott and Santi Cazorla.

VAVEL Logo
About the author