Manchester City target Samir Nasri was named in the starting line-up for Arsenal but the Gunners were beaten by two late Liverpool goals and had youngster Emmanuel Frimpong sent off.
Nasri, who was suspended for Arsenal’s 1-0 victory over Udinese in midweek, returned to the starting line-up amidst rumours that he had wanted to sign for United instead and braved criticism from fans who were clearly unhappy at his refusal to sign a new Arsenal deal.
Nasri’s move to City appears to have stalled after negotiations broke down but Arsene Wenger knows he must strengthen the Arsenal squad whether Nasri leaves or not.
The depleted Gunners were already without Laurent Koscielny who went off after just 15 minutes with a back injury but still held their own against the visitors until the late sending off of Frimpong for a second yellow card allowed Liverpool to take the lead through an unfortunate Ramsay own goal and a late strike from substitute Luis Suarez as they tired.