The first big derby game of the season will see two fallen giants of English football face each other, hoping to get a major lift before the decisive Premiership battles.

Arsene Wenger probably faces the most difficult period of his career at Arsenal and everything suggests that the Frenchman will not be the man in charge for much longer.

After losing Cesc Fabregas to Barcelona, the Professor could see Samir Nasri leave as well, and with so many players on the sidelines at the moment, Arsenal look desperately short on numbers before the Liverpool game.

Following the goalless draw at St James Park, the Gunners were completely outclassed by Udinese in the Champions League play-off first round at their Emirates, and were incredibly lucky to end up 1:0 winners.

Seeing that Arsenal have big problems in every area of the team, the odds of 2.62 (13/8) offered on home win by 888Sport do not look too tempting at the moment.

Gervinho and Alex Song start their three-match bans, while Jack Wilshire, Kieran Gibbs and Abou Diaby remain sidelined.

Robin Van Persie returns from European suspension, but Tomas Rosicky, Johan Djourou and Armand Traore are doubtful.

Probable starting line-up (4-3-3): Szczesny – Sagna, Djourou, Koscielny, Vermaelen – Rosicky, Ramsey, Oxlade-Chamberlain – Walcott, Van Persie, Arshavin.

Following some very good displays from last season and the arrival of Downing, Adam, Henderson, Doni and Jose Enrique, Liverpool were seen by many as one of the candidates for the Premiership title, but first signs have been far from promising.

The Reds had major problems in pre-season before largely disappointing in their opening game against Sunderland, hinting they will need some more time to hit the ground running.

With Arsenal squad plagued with injuries and suspensions, Liverpool have got a great chance to record their first ever win at the Emirates, and Reds are 3.00 (2/1) with Paddy Power to claim maximum points in London.

Kenny Dalglish will be able to choose from virtually fully fit squad, as Glen Johnson is the only injury doubt, although Steven Gerrard remains a long-term worry.

Andy Carroll and Luis Suarez are again set to form the attacking partnership, while there is an increased competition for places in midfield.

Probable starting line-up (4-4-2): Reina – Kelly, Carragher, Skrtel, Enrique – Kuyt, Lucas, Adam, Downing – Carroll, Suarez.