Carra: That win is the benchmark
Jamie Carragher believes Liverpool's Emirates triumph has set the benchmark for their season.
The Reds secured their first victory at Arsenal since February 2000 courtesy Saturday's 2-0 success and the vice captain has challenged his teammates to maintain the high standards they have now set themselves.
"It was a big game for us and a big result," said Carragher.
"I was aware of how we started last season. When we nearly got a good result against Arsenal and then lost at Manchester City. Suddenly one point from six doesn't look too good.
"I'm not sure what message it sends out but it may make some people sit up and take notice and think this Liverpool team could maybe do things this season.
"The challenge for us now is to build on this result. This win has put us in a good position."
Substitutes Raul Meireles and Luis Suarez came off the bench to play key roles in both of Liverpool's late goals and Carragher feels the fact they could turn to the duo illustrates the strength-in-depth now at Kenny Dalglish's disposal.
"That's always been a complaint from supporters or people in the media about the bench at Liverpool,'' Carragher continued. "But to have that quality to come on, they were instrumental in killing the game off for us.
"The time to judge the new signings is at the end of the season but I thought they played a massive part in the win. Jordan Henderson was outstanding in a midfield role."
The victory ensured Liverpool made the most of facing an injury-hit Arsenal side.
Carragher insists the Gunners are still a force to be reckoned with, however, and points to last season's title tilt as evidence of their quality.
"If everyone for Arsenal is fit, it's still a formidable team,'' Carragher said. "I know at the moment, it's the thing to criticise Arsenal and Arsène Wenger but if you look at last season, with 10 games to go, they were the real challengers to Manchester United.
"The only team that were on the verge of stopping Manchester United towards the end of last season was Arsenal so I certainly don't think they are a spent force.
"They've got a great manager, great stadium, great club and I'm sure he'll have something up his sleeve in the next 10 days if Samir Nasri goes. He's done it so often so I certainly wouldn't write off Arsenal."
To have your say on the Arsenal victory speak to former Reds John Aldridge and Gary Gillepie from 6pm tonight on You're on LFC TV.
Call 0845 234 4567, email lfctv@liverpoolfc.tv or tweet @LFCTV.