How will Arsenal’s defence shape up against Liverpool?

As I’m sure you are aware by now Arsenal are going into their opening fixture of the new Premier League campaign with just two recognised central defenders fit in their side. It leaves a question to be debated on what kind of defensive side will we see in the line up for the opening fixture?

Unless Arsene Wenger manages to dip into the transfer market and secure a defensive signing in the next few days, then I can’t see Arsenal having many options available for that first fixture vs Liverpool. Arsenal will for sure be without Mertesacker and Gabriel, both who are going to be ruled out for long periods of time, whilst Koscielny is also unlikely to be fit enough to make the bench, let alone be in the starting line up.

Therefore although it may be quite simple to say that it will be Chambers and Holding that pair up in defence, how will this change Arsenal’s style of play?

Arsene Wenger will have two ball playing centre backs in the side, who will not be afraid of moving forward with the team and Wenger will have to ensure they remain disciplined in staying in position. From pre-season it’s become clear that they can both be caught out on their positioning on the pitch and against a fast paced Liverpool side this may cause a bit of trouble. The pair will have to listen to the leads of the more experienced full backs in Monreal and Bellerin. Although Chambers has been at the club for three years now, he still does lack that vital experience that a defender needs, especially when he will be the leader in central defence out of the two. The pair have shown they can work well together, but it will be a tough test for them both against a pressing Liverpool forward line that will feature the likes of Mane and Firmino.

There is no doubt that the pair are talented and I think they could certainly do a job for Arsenal if they remain disciplined, but I really do think it’s only natural to expect a mistake or two on Sunday.

By AH