Arsenal fans would have preferred it if Liverpool could have at least taken their EFL cup semi-final to extra-time, so as to sap a little more strength from the legs of the Southampton players, because it is the Saints up next for the Gunners.
Arsene Wenger and the players head south to face them on Saturday in the fourth round of the FA cup and even though we are hoping that the next few rounds of matches in the Premier League sees us clos the gap on Chelsea to get the title challenge well and truly back on track, we have to accept that the FA cup is now the best chance of us winning a trophy this season.
To be honest I do not think that the result of the EFL cup semi will make a great deal of difference to Arsenal, but maybe we can take something from the way it panned out and why Liverpool lost both legs to Southampton. Wenger can surely expect a similar set up and tactics from Claude Puel on Saturday, so how does he make sure that Arsenal come out on top?
One thing we should expect is a tough and tight game, so patience could be crucial. Liverpool failed to score against them at both Anfield and St. Mary’s and that makes it just one goal conceded in their last five games, so we certainly do not want them to get into the lead.
Arsenal should not expect it be attack against defence though, because in the first leg at home the Saints were the better side and created a lot of chances, so we must be ready. Their key players were Nathan Redmond and Jay Rodriguez so Wenger needs to make sure we keep them quiet.
As well as the tactical nuances that could help Wenger get Arsenal into the fifth round of the FA cup, the simple fact that our opponents beat Liverpool home and away should sharpen up the Gunners and make sure that we approach this game in the right way. Will that be enough to see us through?
Bob.