Arsenal were facing a vastly improved Liverpool in the second half while hampered by a depleted defence, yet the home team will be frustrated they were unable to close out what would have been a big win.

The Gunners could hardly afford another loss after slipping up at Bournemouth, such are the title race’s fine margins, and fully deserved their half-time lead after an excellent first 45 minutes.

The returning Saka gave Robertson a torrid time, especially when scoring the first goal, and it was no more than Arsenal merited when Merino dived forward on to Rice’s teasing set-piece delivery to restore their lead after Van Dijk’s equaliser.

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta was forced into changes with the departure of Gabriel, who was holding an ice pack to his thigh on the bench, and Timber, who had only just returned from injury. The pressure on their backline was consequently mounting before Liverpool broke away for Salah to score.

Arsenal will be disappointed with only a point at home, but the questions that arose about this side’s character after the defeat at Bournemouth were answered again here as they showed real spirit and resilience when Liverpool scented victory in the closing minutes.

The worry for Arteta now is that he may face the loss of both Gabriel and Timber for upcoming games and he will be desperately hoping they both only have minor problems.