Gary McAllister insists Liverpool will travel to Arsenal this evening relishing the opportunity to pit their wits against a top-of-the-table rival at this fledgling stage of the campaign.

The Reds tackle the Gunners at the Emirates aiming to build on their 100 per cent start to the season and make an early statement of intent.

McAllister told Liverpoolfc.com: “When you win games, you can’t wait for the next one – and that’s the case here.

“These are the games that everyone within the dressing room wants to play in. They take care of themselves and there’s not a lot of motivation required. It’s the big games against the big clubs when the big players produce.

“It’s always a good game. When I was involved in the TV side of the game, it was one that everybody still wants to see.

“Both sides like to try and play attractive football. There is no inch given and we’ve got to go there and make sure we realise we’re going to be in a game – and I am sure that will be the case.”

Arsenal suffered disappointment on their only home appearance so far this season, losing 2-0 to West Ham United on the opening weekend of the Barclays Premier League season.

McAllister added: “If we make a bright start, there might be some doubt within the crowd. They’ve witnessed a home defeat already and you’ve got to try and put those seeds [of doubt] in there.

“We’ve got to try make Arsenal a little bit unsure and not as confident as they can be. It’s important to be really competitive against them.”