Arsenal cult hero 'scared' before Liverpool game as 'gap can close drastically'

Arsenal Cult Hero 'Scared' Before Liverpool Game as 'Gap Can Close Drastically'

Former Arsenal defender Emmanuel Eboue has admitted to feeling "scared" ahead of Arsenal's crucial Premier League clash with Liverpool at the Emirates Stadium on Thursday night. The Ivorian cult hero, known for his energetic displays during his 2005-2011 stint at the club, highlighted the high stakes in the title race, warning that a Liverpool win could "close the gap drastically" on Arsenal's six-point lead.[1][2]

Arsenal currently top the Premier League table after 20 matches, boasting an impressive 84.8% title-winning probability according to the Opta supercomputer—the highest it's assigned any team this season. Mikel Arteta's side has surged ahead with five straight league wins, capitalizing on dropped points from rivals Manchester City and Aston Villa over the festive period. Despite past collapses, like their 2022-23 lead evaporating, Arsenal's form suggests resilience, having already faced tough away games against top challengers.[2]

Liverpool, managed by Arne Slot, sit fourth but face pessimism from pundits. Recent frustrating draws against Leeds and Fulham have stalled their momentum, with former Liverpool striker John Aldridge conceding they're now battling for a top-four finish and Champions League qualification rather than the title. Chris Sutton predicts a "comfortable" Arsenal win, labeling Liverpool a "bang-average team" unable to mount a winning run, even as they carry underperforming striker Viktor Gyokeres.[1]

Paul Merson, another ex-Arsenal star, echoes this, calling it a "brilliant time" to face Liverpool given their vulnerabilities. Eboue, reflecting on Arsenal's psychological edge from the reverse fixture at Anfield, stressed the pressure on the Gunners to respond if City and Villa win prior. A Liverpool upset could reignite the race, forcing Arsenal to confront their historical demons of leads slipping away.[1][3]

Historically, teams six points clear after 20 games win the title about two-thirds of the time, but Arsenal's favorable remaining fixtures bolster optimism. Eboue's candid fear underscores the match's intensity, positioning it as a potential title pivot.[2]

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