Opta Big Match Stats: Theo to get among Arsenal goals

 

Using Opta's guidance, Christian Crowther chooses three bets for the massive Premier League clash between Arsenal and Liverpool...

 

Arsenal v Liverpool (Wednesday, 19:45, Sky Sports 1)

The Emirates has witnessed more goals than any other Premier League stadium this season (46)

Although things haven't always gone according to plan for Arsene Wenger this season, at least the fans at the Emirates have not been starved of goal-mouth action in the Premier League, albeit far too many have flown in the home end for the Frenchman's liking. With their title ambitions evaporated, this match against fellow fourth spot-courters Liverpool is about as big as they come at present for Arsenal. Both teams are capable of greatness on their day but have failed to produce consistently, leading to respective positions of sixth and seventh heading into this clash. However, one element of continuity for both teams in recent matches is goals, with every one of Liverpool's last ten going over the 2.5 mark and Arsenal's last three games returning 14.

Recommended Bet: Back Over 2.5 goals @ 1.75

 

There have been seven goals scored in the 90th minute or later in the last eight Premier League meetings between Arsenal and Liverpool

Arsenal's early season visit to Anfield provided Liverpool fans with possibly their worst home performance of the season, while for their guests it is still arguably their best away showing to date. Still, both teams have come a long way in their development since then and, given so much rides on the result, we're likely to witness a far more competitive match. As the above bolded stat testifies, there has been no shortage of last-gasp drama in this meeting of two of England's most stately foes either. Considering Arsenal rarely start with any kind of conviction - only three of their last 15 Premier League goals have arrived before the break and they have trailed in their last four league games - another second-half onslaught looks like their most likely route to victory.

Recommended Bet: Back the second half to feature more goals @ 2.1

 

Of players to have attempted at least 30 shots (excluding those blocked) in the Premier League this season, Theo Walcott (31.3%) has the best shot conversion rate

It was the saga that dragged its heels worse than a child being taken to the dentist, nevertheless Walcott finally signed on the dotted line this month, penning a new three-and-half-year contract. It has meant relief all-round for Gunners' fans, as in Walcott they've signed a player who has finally lived up to his promise this campaign, becoming the club's leading scorer on 17 from 27 appearances (ten of those off the bench). The England man has proved he can do it against top Premier League opposition as well, bagging against three of the top five in Tottenham, Everton and Chelsea this season. The winger-come-striker is currently in a purple patch too, notching in his last three appearances, and will carry Arsenal's acutest goal threat against Liverpool.

Recommended Bet: Back Walcott to score @ 3.05

 

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