Masch wary of Gunners threat

While Riera hopes to 'send a message' following draws

Last updated: 17th December 2008

Masch wary of Gunners threat

Mascherano: Hoping for 'Big Four' hat-trick

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Javier Mascherano has warned his Liverpool team-mates that Arsenal will raise their game in Sunday's clash at Emirates Stadium.

Premier League leaders Liverpool travel to North London one point clear at the summit and, with closest rivals Chelsea playing on Monday, Rafa Benitez's side could end the weekend with significant breathing space.

But Argentine midfielder Mascherano insists Arsenal - who have struggled this season and sit fifth in the table - cannot be dismissed following their victories over Chelsea and United this season.

Liverpool have recorded a home success against United and three points at Stamford Bridge this term, but Arsenal have matched those wins and Mascherano is well aware Arsene Wenger's side will also be keen to complete a valuable 'Big Four' hat-trick.

Danger

"We have beaten Chelsea and Manchester United this season, but we have to remember Arsenal have done the same," Mascherano told Liverpool's official website.

"I think they play much better against the top teams and so we know it will be a hard match. But if we play our football and use our heads then we can win the game."

And Mascherano has singled out Arsenal captain Cesc Fabregas, the man he is likely to be personally charged with stopping, as the main danger to Liverpool.

"I think Cesc Fabregas is one of the best in his position in the game and we are going to have to take care with him," added Mascherano.

Response

"If we want to beat them then we will need to be 100 per cent concentrated all the way through."

Meanwhile, Mascherano's team-mate Albert Riera feels that glory in the capital could be the perfect way for Liverpool to respond to the criticism which has followed three successive league draws at Anfield.

"We've beaten United and Chelsea already this season so if we could now beat Arsenal maybe it would send a message out," said Riera.

"It would be a good response to go and win against Arsenal after these draws.

"If we do that some might say we're doing it the hard way - beating the top teams and not those we might be expected to win against - but people forget this is a very competitive championship. We're still in a good position."