Liverpool’s sudden schedule change is set to provide a major physiological advantage to their Premier League foes Arsenal in this intense title race.
The Reds’ weekend Merseyside derby against Everton was called off owing to the effects of Storm Darragh. The authorities are concerned about the supporter’s safety and hence decided to postpone the game to a later date this season.
They will miss the chance of extending their lead at the top of the table. The Reds’ 3-3 draw against Newcastle United at St. James Park has already cut the difference from nine points to seven.
It is expected that the derby game will now be shifted to next year and at a time when they will be suffering the wrath of a pretty hectic league schedule.
Meanwhile, Arsenal are going to Fulham on Saturday at 2 pm UK time. They have a great chance to cut the deficit at the top by three points.
Arsenal will have the chance to cut Liverpool’s lead to just four points tomorrow at Craven Cottage, after the Merseyside derby has been called off this morning.
Psychologically, it’s huge. Plus the fact the game will be rescheduled next year when the calendar is even more… pic.twitter.com/KIYwmxS62u
— now.arsenal (@now_arsenaI) December 7, 2024
Although Mikel Arteta’s men will still be four points behind Liverpool, reducing the gap will boost their morale. A game vs. Everton is always going to be a tricky one for their fierce rivals, even if the Toffees are struggling this season.
MUST READ: Arsenal captain Martin Odegaard provides key insights into on-field partnership with Bukayo Saka
A win is a must at this stage for the Gunners since Chelsea are also lurking at second place and are in great form heading into their next league game against Tottenh*m Hotsp*r.
NEW DATE FOR LIVERPOOL VS EVERTON GAME?
Arne Slot’s side faces a busy midweek schedule at the start of January. With no space in between, it is difficult to see the postponed game being shifted to tomorrow this month.
The Reds also have to plan dates for their next Carabao Cup semi-final games if they beat Southampton in the quarterfinal round. Similarly, they have Premier League and Champions League games at the start of February before a winter break.
The next available slot is a tricky one, and that could be in the third week of February. Liverpool will be facing Wolves on the 15th of Feb, and it is highly likely that the Everton game will be shifted to this week.
MUST READ: Arsenal preparing to offer Joshua Kimmich a three-year deal worth £30m
They will also travel to Etihad on the 22nd of Feb for a game against Manchester City, but we expect this encounter to be shifted to the 23rd for TV coverage. It will be a pivotal week for the league leaders as they play three back-to-back difficult contests, and this could have a huge influence on the title race.
Arsenal will be keeping an eye on their rivals during this time. A slight fumble will push them back towards the top at a crucial time of the season.
