Liverpool take on Arsenal at Anfield and while there is quality all over the pitch, some key battles will take centre stage and decide the game.

Both the Reds and the Gunners will feel a win puts them in prime position to challenge for the title and it could well come down to the big hitters to decide this game.

But in terms of those big hitters and who matters the most, there are a few key battles that might well influence things more than others.

With that, we’ve looked at the THREE key duels what could decide Liverpool v Arsenal.

Alexis Mac Allister vs. Declan Rice

Midfield is always key and this will be a battle Mikel Arteta is keen to win.

Declan Rice, of course, is the man at the centre of all that planning. Put simply, if Rice wins the midfield battle against Liverpool’s Mac Allister, then Arsenal will dominate.

If not, then Liverpool will threaten and it could be a long afternoon.

Alexander Isak vs Gabriel Magalhães

With William Saliba ruled out due to a back injury, Arsenal’s backline will rely heavily on Gabriel Magalhães to handle Liverpool’s forward line. Magalhaes has stepped up magnificently again and with Ezri Konsa also playing well, Arsenal have a lot going for them.

However, Alexander Isak is looking like being back to his best and he could cause issues. If Isak has a good game, then it could be enough for Liverpool to take the three points.

Milos Kerkez vs. Noni Madueke

Normally, we’d be looking at Bukayo Saka here but with Saka out, it falls on Noni Madueke to make the running for the Gunners.

Madueke will be given the chance – hopefully – to really make a go of things and put Arsenal on the front foot.

On the other side, Milos Kerkez is growing under Andoni Iraola. If he can keep Madueke quiet, then he can also influence things further up the pitch as well, which could be a big issue for Arsenal.