A Gooner's view of LFC

Throughout this season we'll be gauging the views of our opponents by speaking to a representative from our opponents' website - official or unofficial - before each game.

Today we speak with Rupert Ward of www.arseweb.com and ask her to give him views on Liverpool ahead of today's clash at Anfield.

Liverpoolfc.tv: Are matches against Liverpool something to look forward to or is it just another match to you?

Rupert Ward: Liverpool matches aren't quite the big deal they used to be. I think it's fair to say that Arsenal fans see Man Utd and Tottenham as the big 2 (4) matches these days, with Liverpool and Chelsea lagging a bit behind in terms of importance and emotion.

Having said that, I think many of us regret that, and hope that

Liverpool can re-establish themselves (to some extent anyway!). My memories of the late 80s/early 90s are that Liverpool (who stood

in similar relation to Arsenal then as Man Utd do now) were viewed with respect more than hate. These days Man Utd are simply hated.

Are you confident of victory?

I am never confident of victory. Not even when leading in the FA Cup final with minutes to go, having dominated the game.

What's the mood like amongst Arsenal fans at the moment?

Backs against the wall. Some are taken in by the press and talk about the "shameful" display at Old Trafford. but most I think are proud and pleased that the team showed some bottle after a few spiritless performances leading up to that match. Our only worry is the size of our squad, particularly given the presumed forthcoming suspensions and particularly given the manager's unwillingness to give some of our outstanding youngsters a go. He always seems to pick the dodgy expereienced players as cover rather than gamble on an exciting youngster.

What do you think of Arsenal's season so far ?

Dodgy spell in the middle (Villa, Portsmouth, Inter), but pretty satisfactory apart from that (given the sizeof the squad etc).

Which Arsenal player do you think could do the most damage to Liverpool on the day and why?

Hmmm. Thierry Henry. Do you really need to ask?

How highly do you rate the present Liverpool team?

Some superb individuals.

Which Liverpool player do most fans at Arsenal fear?

Owen.

If you could sign three of the present LFC team, who would you sign?

Riise. Gerrard (to play alongside Vieira). Hyypia.

What is your opinion of the Liverpool supporters?

Used to think they were all great, sporting people. But the only time I've been a victim of football violence was walking home on my own from an Arsenal-Liverpol game at Highbury, not far from the ground and minding my own business. Two away fans knocked me to the ground (from behind) and kicked me in the head. I know they're not representative but I have to admit I'm a bit wary of Liverpool fans these days.

What is your best memory of watching a game versus Liverpool?

Ha ha ha. I know these are probably standard questions but really,

you don't need to ask that of an Arsenal fan do you? Arseweb has a whole section devoted to memories of that moment in 1989, it's

one of the most visited parts of the site.

I guess Limpar's goal from the halfway line is worth a mention too

though, if only because people go on about that Beckham one like it was the best goal ever. Limpar was being challenged for the ball when he scored his. But he doesn't play for United and he's not English, so the establishment has conveniently forgotten all about it!

Predict the score...

I never predict scores.