Arsenal could be just three points behind Premier League leaders Liverpool ahead of their game away at Manchester City on Sunday, February 23 with both teams having played the same number of games.
Arne Slot’s side are currently six points clear at the summit with that gap possibly stretching to nine before the Gunners play again once Liverpool have made the short trip to Goodison Park for a Merseyside Derby against Everton next Wednesday.
Though they were just beaten at home by Bournemouth in the FA Cup, since the arrival of David Moyes a total of nine points from a possible 12 have been picked up. Liverpool have also won just once in their last five visits to their rivals.
If that record remains the same, Arsenal will be handed a major confidence boost before taking on Leicester in their return to action this Saturday. Having reached the Carabao Cup final, Liverpool have seen their Premier League game against Aston Villa rescheduled to take place in just 10 days.
A win against Wolves the previous weekend is likely but Villa Park will present a significant challenge for Slot and his squad. A defeat in that game could see Liverpool head into their clash against reigning champions Man City just three or four points clear, assuming Arsenal beat Leicester and West Ham in their next two games.
While it is a lot ifs, there is a real possibility that some ground is made up given the fixtures awaiting both teams. Being out of the FA Cup could actually benefit Arsenal when it comes to the run-in as Liverpool may require league games being moved.