By Boris Mellor
April 20 2009

Arsene Wenger admitted today, in his pre match press conference, that he never saw the historic Arsenal victory at Anfield 20 years ago. It had nothing to do with his eyesight; it was just that they didn't consider the English League that important in France at that time. He has subsequently seen the goals, but he has not watched the DVD of the match.

 Since Saturday Adebayor and RvP have checked in injured, but Sagna has recovered and will be in the squad. Clichy, Gallas, Almunia and Djourou remain on the injury list. Still no mention of when Djourou will be back.

Wenger believed that Arsenal could have had a couple more goals on Saturday, well it's my turn not to see that. Both teams had a total of 2 shots each on target. What a showpiece.

Wenger admitted that Fabianski didn't have the best of games, very true, but last week Cech had a poor game, also true. Even a keeper with 10 years experience can have a bad game, how very true. Can't wait for Almunia to come back, which could be by Saturday.

Conspiracy theories

Some fans suggested that Wenger's strange team selection in the semi was dictated by his belief that he can still win the league. Most unlikely, but he did say he hadn't written off 3^rd, 2^nd or first. He has no intention of coasting and wants to bounce back as quickly as possible after such a disappointing result. There will be a good pitch at Anfield so that is a good start.

He felt the Gunners were a little unlucky last year in CL, but denied it hurt as he didn't want to dwell in past.

Can they bounce back?

Still unbeaten in the league, but with the weakest back five in a very long time, and having not won at Anfield since October 2003 it won't be easy. True Arsenal have had a few draws up there, and a few cup wins since then. Liverpool will be without Gerrard but have had a week's rest since being knocked out of the CL.

More thoughts on the game here where I am interviewed on the official Liverpool site.