Merson claims Arsenal's title hopes will be OVER if they lose to Liverpool

Paul Merson has claimed Arsenal's title hopes will be ended if they suffer defeat by Liverpool this weekend.

Mikel Arteta's side trail the Reds, who sit top, by five points ahead of Sunday's crunch clash at the Emirates.

After a five-match winless streak, Arsenal have won their last two matches against Crystal Palace and Nottingham Forest respectively.

And Merson believes his former club must avoid defeat against Jurgen Klopp's side if they are to continue their hunt for a first Premier League title in 20 years.

Speaking on Sky Sports, Merson said: 'It comes down to this weekend. They were wasteful in the FA Cup.

'If they (Arsenal) lose to Liverpool they're out of the title race, so for me it all comes down to this weekend.'

Asked about Arsenal's failure to sign a striker, Merson said: 'It's hard. It's the hardest position in the world to try and get a centre forward.

'The one that was around was probably Ivan Toney but if that wasn't done on January 1 then it was probably never going to get done'.

Arsenal will be seeking revenge having been dumped out of the FA Cup by Liverpool after a 2-0 defeat at the Emirates last month.

Meanwhile, Liverpool will be buoyed by their thumping 4-1 win over Chelsea on Wednesday night and are currently on a four-match win streak in the league.

A win against the Reds will see Arsenal close the gap on Klopp's side to two points while a defeat ensures Sunday's visitors extend their lead over the Gunners to eight points.