Pundit disagrees with Chris Sutton’s bold Arsenal prediction ahead of Liverpool clash

Former striker Chris Sutton has revealed his very positive predictions for Arsenal as they host Liverpool this weekend. The Gunners have enjoyed a brilliant start to the Premier League campaign, suffering only one defeat in eight as they sit top of the table.

Meanwhile, Liverpool sit in ninth place after dropping points against the likes of Fulham, Crystal Palace and Brighton. Despite only beating the Reds once in the previous 14 league meetings, Sutton has high expectations of their performance at the Emirates Stadium this weekend.

Writing in his BBC Sport column, Sutton said: “The way Arsenal went at Tottenham last weekend was impressive, and bodes well for this game too. While the Gunners are playing well and are full of confidence, things still aren’t right at Liverpool as far as I can see.

“Jurgen Klopp’s side were very comfortable against Rangers in the Champions League on Tuesday but they weren’t tested defensively. Here, Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Jesus won’t give them a minute’s peace. I think Liverpool will score, even though they have not quite clicked yet this season, but Arsenal’s attacking talent are going to cause them a lot of problems at the other end.”

However, despite Arsenal’s stellar form, Mark Lawrenson has predicted that the Merseyside club will claim a point on the road. Speaking to Paddy Power, the ex-Liverpool defender said:  “I think this might be a draw. Arsenal are very good, the young players are starting to bloom and blossom.

“They’ve got a strong underbelly which is something they haven’t had for ages and they can defend. I was at Anfield when Liverpool played Rangers and it could have been four or five. This might be a game where Liverpool turn a corner but with Arsenal playing so well I’ll go for a draw.”

With Man City only a point behind the Gunners, Mikel Arteta will be determined to prove Lawrenson wrong this weekend and solidify their position at the top of the league.

Chris Sutton’s prediction: Arsenal 4-1 Liverpool

Mark Lawrenson’s prediction: Arsenal 1-1 Liverpool