LIVERPOOL boss Brendan Rodgers has dismissed suggestions that Arsenal’s top four status will be in danger this season.
The Gunners, who travel to Anfield for tomorrow’s lunchtime kick-off, have made an indifferent start to their Premier League campaign with successive goalless draws against Sunderland and Stoke.
Arsene Wenger’s men have sorely missed Robin van Persie, who was sold to Manchester United, but Rodgers still expects them to be among the Champions League spots this term.
Rodgers said: “They have been consistently in that top four for the last 14 or 15 years.
“The competition now at the top end of the Premier League is immense. The money invested into the clubs is incredible.
“That makes it tougher but certainly Arsenal are a team that have been up there for a number of years and I am sure it will be the same this year.
“Look at Arsenal last year, they didn’t make the best of starts and ended up achieving their objective of getting into the top four.
“Arsene is a wonderful manager and has demonstrated that over the years.
“Sunday will be a tough game for us but the players are really looking forward to it.”
Daniel Agger will return to league action following his one-match ban, while Nuri Sahin is expected to make his debut for the Reds in place of the injured Lucas Leiva.
See the Football ECHO inside for an interview with new boy Nuri Sahin.
