Arsenal star Ebere Eze risks upsetting dressing room favourite as Gunners debut decided | Football | Sport

Captain Martin Odegaard is also a doubt after being withdrawn early with a shoulder problem. This almost certainly means a first appearance at the club for Eze in Anfield, and the opportunity to have an impact in a game already deemed central to the title race.

Eze promotes a central role in the midfield but is also able to play on one or the other side. Arteta is now faced with a decision to deploy it in the middle or use it as a right replacement for his key man.

Saka has long been considered crucial in the hope of his side to challenge for major silverware and has sometimes been perceived as insufficient for his Spanish manager. Last season, he needed surgery after having injured his straight hamstrings in December, keeping him outside for more than three months.

Many fans have blamed the player’s overuse injury. His mentality could now be tested, however, if Eze came and had an instant impact during his absence.

Given the costs involved and the decisive nature with which Arsenal has moved to scupper the agreement of Spurs, it is inconceivable thatbe was signed as a squad player. Its presence is now likely to disturb Saka, who has just under two years old to stay in his current agreement.

The additions of Eze, Noni Madueke, Martin Zubimenddi and Viktor Gyokerres undoubtedly strengthened the Arteta team before the new campaign. Keeping them all happy, however, can simply prove one of his biggest tasks to date.