Arsenal v Liverpool – TEAM NEWS

Liverpool trio Daniel Sturridge, James Milner and Marko Grujic are all facing a race against time to be considered for the Premier League opener against Arsenal at The Emirates.

Sturridge (hip) missed both Barcelona and Mainz, Milner (heel) was forced off during the first half against Barca while Grujic (ankle) was taken off during the game against Mainz.

Centre-back Dejan Lovren has been carrying a knock but should be available. New signings Ragnar Klavan and Joel Matip are also available for selection at the heart of the defence.

Midfielder Lucas is out with a hamstring problem and isn’t expected back for at least another week or so.

Liverpool’s new Number 1 Loris Karius is out until October with a broken hand meaning Simon Mignolet will be given a chance to raise his game.

Gomez and Sakho (both calf / shin problems) are not expected back until September at the earliest.

Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger faces a defensive headache ahead of the match. Centre-backs Gabriel Paulista and Per Mertesacker are definitely out. 

Laurent Koscielny hasn’t been involved during pre-season having been given an extended break following Euro 2016 while Polish midfielder Krystian Bielik (18) has been deployed in defence for the Gunners during pre-season.

Jack Wilshere “is doing well … but will not be completely ready for Sunday” according to Wenger. The player himself has declared himself available if needed.

Carl Jenkinson and Danny Welbeck will not be involved.

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