The League Cup last-16 stage promises high-stakes drama as several Premier League heavyweights and in-form underdogs battle for a coveted place in the quarter-finals.Both last season’s finalists

Arsenal host Brighton on Wednesday in a tasty League Cup last 16 clash in north London.

Liverpool legend believes Gunners star should win major individual award if Mikel Arteta’s side go on and seal the title

It is Manchester City rather than Liverpool who are billed as Arsenal’s closest challengers. Pep Guardiola’s side may have also stumbled on Sunday, falling to a 1–0 reverse against Aston Villa, but the four-match losing streak endured by Arne Slot’s side has relegated them to the status of third place.

This hard-fought victory over Crystal Palace was reflective of Arsenal’s wider qualities and couldn't have come at a more opportune moment

Fast forward to Monday, and – after a 3-2 defeat to Brentford – Liverpool has now lost four straight games in the Premier League, just the fourth time in history that a defending champion has gone on such a poor run of form, per Opta.

The Gunners’ summer signing proved the difference as Mikel Arteta’s side extended their lead at the top of the table.

Follow build-up to five Premier League matches, Bournemouth v Nottingham Forest, Arsenal v Crystal Palace, Aston Villa v Man City, Wolves v Burnley, Everton v Tottenham, with live text updates and reaction.