Source: Liverpool_Echo
Javier Mascherano looking to help re-launch Liverpool FC’s season over Christmas
Javier Mascherano looks to re-launch Liverpool FC's season over the festive period[LNB]CHRISTMAS cheer has been in short supply at Melwood in recent days as the impact of Liverpool's disastrous Champions League adventure has kicked in.[LNB]Normally there is a buzz surrounding the build up to the festive period, especially once the draw for the knockout stages has been made - in the last few years alone, the imagination was fired by the prospect of last 16 ties against Barcelona, Inter and Real Madrid.[LNB]This season, of course, has been completely different and the feelings invoked by a ruinous run of form which have left Liverpool way off the pace in the Premier League and out of Europe's most prestigious competition are not something anyone wishes to experience again.[LNB]Yet, as Javier Mascherano points out, dwelling on misery is futile; the Reds might be feeling sorry for themselves right now but that is not going to help them breathe life into their ailing campaign nor will it assist their push for a top four place.[LNB]So, with that in mind, it is no surprise Mascherano is eager to talk about new beginnings, as he and the rest of his team-mates limber up for tomorrow's crunch clash at Anfield with old rivals Arsenal.[LNB]Should they out gun the Gunners, the table will have a completely different look to it; boosting their tally by three points would bring the pack chasing a place in next year's Champions League closer together and fire belief in the ranks.[LNB]It would also give Liverpool the chance to go into a run of eminently winnable fixtures against Wigan, Portsmouth and Wolves with a head of steam, something they haven't been able to do since a six-match victory spree in September.[LNB]No wonder, then, Mascherano is eager to put the misery of October and November to the back of his mind - he knows come January 1 Liverpool's fortunes could be completely transformed, which is why he says beating Arsenal is key.[LNB]'December is important for everyone in the Premier League, not just for us,' Mascherano pointed out. 'January is key as well because there is the African Cup of Nations and some teams are going to lose a lot of key players.
