Mikel Arteta says Arsenal have point to prove against Liverpool

MADRID: Mikel Arteta, on Wednesday, said that Premier League leaders Arsenal have a point to prove against Liverpool. Arsenal, who are leading the table with 48 points from 20 games, six points ahead of Manchester City, will take on Liverpool on Thursday in the English top flight.

The Gunners will be looking to boost their unbeaten home record, having won 14 of their 15 matches across all competitions this season. While Liverpool will also be motivated for the Emirates Stadium clash after winning the first leg match against Arsenal at Anfield by 1-0 back in August. “We’re very excited. It’s a massive game against the champions… We have a point to prove, we’re going to have our crowd creating an amazing atmosphere,” Arteta told reporters ahead of Thursday’s clash. “We are top of the table, we play at home against a really good opponent. We want to maintain our position. To do that, we’re going to have to be excellent throughout the game. That’s the point we have to prove.”

Arteta praised the Reds and added that Arsenal need the victory against Liverpool on Thursday. “They’ve been unbelievable again this season. It makes such a difference. We become a different team. The level of energy, commitment, confidence and desire is transmitted by them. We need them tomorrow,” Arteta said. “There is nothing like it. You become a different player. Your emotional status is better, your level is better, your confidence is better. They encourage you to perform actions with aggression, with a lot of determination, and it lifts the whole team.”

The defending champions are fourth in the Premier League with 34 points after 20 matches and have struggled for form and consistency this season. Web Desk