Barnes explains which Arsenal tactical move could give Liverpool upper hand

Jamie Woodhouse

Liverpool legend John Barnes has suggested Arsenal will struggle to take anything from Anfield on Saturday unless they adapt their game. 

The Reds currently hold a six-point lead at the top of the Premier League, while Arsenal sit 13 points behind in 5th after their 1-1 draw with Brighton last time out.

Barnes suggested that Gunners boss Unai Emery does not change his approach regardless of the opponent, something which he believes will cost them against Liverpool.

Barnes said: “Arsenal still play quite an attacking open game, which no team wants to do against Liverpool.

“If they do that, Liverpool will give them problems. They don’t change to try and take care of the opposition.

“They work hard all over the field, they close down in front, I don’t think they’ll try to do anything different just because Aubameyang is a good player.”

Granit Xhaka has become somewhat of a utility player for the Gunners under Emery, with the defensive midfielder even featuring at centre-back in the Premier League defeat to Southampton, and in the EFL Cup loss to Spurs.

Barnes suggested that if Emery deployed Xhaka in that position on Saturday, it would give Liverpool a huge confidence boost.

“Xhaka is not a centre back,” Barnes explained.

“If he plays there against Liverpool, that will give Liverpool a lot of hope because that’s not his position and he’s not particularly quick.”

Speaking to the official Arsenal website, Emery praised Xhaka for the options he provides.

“Every player is helping us with big commitments, playing in different positions, because sometimes the team needs them there,” said Emery.

“Granit is helping and I am happy with him and his performance. His commitment to help us is very important.”