Adams: Reds can't afford to lose

Liverpool go into the match on the back of their worst run since the 1953/54 season and are already nine points behind the Gunners. Adams, though, believes such statistics can soon change.

He says: "I fully expect Arsenal's game against Liverpool to be one of the most significant of the season. A win for my old club, coupled with another on New Year's Day against Chelsea, and the title is theirs to lose.

"If Liverpool win, though, it could be the turning point they are so desperately seeking. They are certainly capable, with confidence, of going on a long unbeaten run. Lose and they are pretty much out of the title race."