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Match Preview: Everton vs. Liverpool – Prediction, Lineups, and Team News

Goodison Park will host the 245th Merseyside derby between Everton and Liverpool in the Premier League this Saturday.

This match will carry significant emotional weight, marking the final derby to be held at Goodison before Everton moves to their new stadium at Bramley-Moore Dock next season.

Match preview
For Everton supporters, this game will be one of the most emotional of the season, second only to the final home match against Southampton in May. The significance of this derby as the last to be played at the iconic Goodison Park adds to the atmosphere.

Everton fans will head into the match in higher spirits after snapping a five-game winless streak and a four-game scoreless run with a vital 4-0 victory over relegation contenders Wolverhampton Wanderers. The win came at a crucial time for manager Sean Dyche, whose job had been under threat due to a run of poor form that had frustrated much of the fanbase.

The victory lifted Everton to 15th place, briefly overtaking Crystal Palace and Leicester City, who won the previous day, and now they are five points clear of the relegation zone, a vital cushion ahead of a challenging stretch of matches.

After facing Liverpool, Dyche’s side will travel to Arsenal, host Chelsea just before Christmas, and face Manchester City on Boxing Day. Thus, securing the three points was vital for avoiding a dangerous run of fixtures.

Everton will be aiming for back-to-back league wins for the first time since April when they defeated Liverpool at Goodison. However, their recent derby record suggests this might be a tough task. They have not won consecutive derbies against Liverpool since the 1984-85 season, when they were crowned champions of England.

In fact, Everton’s overall record against the top teams is poor, with just four wins in 47 Premier League matches against sides currently top of the table. Liverpool, in particular, have been their toughest opponents, with only six victories in 54 meetings since 2000, making the visitors the clear favorites for this match.

Liverpool’s shock loss at Goodison Park in April ended their 12-game unbeaten streak there, but new manager Arne Slot has little to improve upon Jurgen Klopp’s record at the venue. Klopp won his first derby at Goodison but only managed one more win in his next seven visits, with a 4-1 victory in 2021 when Rafael Benitez was in charge at Everton.

The 12:30pm kickoff could be either an advantage or a challenge for Liverpool. Despite much discussion about their frequent early Saturday games, they are unbeaten in their last eight such matches, winning six.

A win in this crucial match would increase pressure on the teams chasing Liverpool, while any further dropped points would provide more motivation for their rivals.

Although Mohamed Salah’s brilliance wasn’t enough in the 3-3 draw at Newcastle on Wednesday, it remains clear that Liverpool is still performing at a high level despite slipping up. It was only their third draw in 21 games under Slot, and with Arsenal, Chelsea, and Manchester City all winning on the same night, the gap between Liverpool and their rivals has closed slightly. However, defensive issues have crept in, as the team conceded two or more goals in four consecutive away games.

Team News

Armando Broja made his debut for Everton during Wednesday’s win and had a positive impact, setting up two chances for Jack Harrison. His return puts pressure on Dominic Calvert-Lewin, who regained his place from Beto in midweek and contributed to two own goals scored by Craig Dawson. Youssef Chermiti is still a week or two away from full fitness, while midfielders James Garner and Tim Iroegbuman are also working to be fit for the busy winter schedule.

For Liverpool, defensive duo Ibrahima Konate and Conor Bradley remain sidelined, and their absence was felt during the game against Newcastle, where Joe Gomez struggled defensively. Trent Alexander-Arnold is set to return, and it is likely that Jarrell Quansah will partner Virgil van Dijk at the back. Goalkeeper Alisson is nearing a return, although Slot has stated that he won’t be rushed back, given Caoimhin Kelleher’s form, though the Brazilian could return sooner following Kelleher’s error in the Newcastle game.

Alexis Mac Allister is suspended after his booking at Newcastle, and Diogo Jota and Federico Chiesa are unlikely to feature in such an intense match.

All eyes will be on Salah once again, as he recently overtook Erling Haaland at the top of the Premier League goal-scoring charts with two goals in midweek. He also surpassed Wayne Rooney for the most Premier League games with both a goal and an assist (37), after setting up Curtis Jones for the equalizer.

Everton possible starting lineup:
Pickford; Young, Tarkowski, Branthwaite, Mykolenko; Ndiaye, Gueye, Mangala, Doucoure, McNeil; Calvert-Lewin

Liverpool possible starting lineup:
Kelleher; Alexander-Arnold, Quansah, Van Dijk, Robertson; Gravenberch, Jones, Szoboszlai; Salah, Nunez, Diaz

Prediction: Everton 0-2 Liverpool
Everton’s midweek victory will provide a more optimistic atmosphere leading into the match, but their poor record against Liverpool cannot be ignored, with just six wins in 54 meetings. Even when Liverpool were not at their best, they still often bested their Merseyside rivals. Despite a slight setback on Wednesday, Liverpool remains the overwhelming favorite for this derby.

December 6, 2024
Premier League compelled to issue two VAR statements on Liverpool controversy against Southampton

Liverpool extended their lead at the top of the Premier League to eight points with a hard-fought victory over struggling Southampton. The Saints proved to be a tough opponent, forcing Liverpool to come from behind to secure all three points.

Mohamed Salah was the hero of the match, scoring twice to ensure the win against the relegation-threatened side. The Egyptian forward capitalized on a mistake by Alex McCarthy to equalize after Liverpool had trailed 2-1. He then netted a penalty following a handball by Yukinari Sugawara in the box.

Dominik Szoboszlai had earlier given Liverpool the lead in the first half after Southampton’s defensive error. However, Southampton was handed a way back into the game when Andy Robertson was penalized for a foul in the box. Adam Armstrong’s initial penalty was saved, but he converted the rebound.

A controversial decision by referee Samuel Barrott saw a penalty awarded after Tyler Dibling was brought down, despite Robertson seemingly making contact outside the box. The Premier League later issued a statement clarifying that there was “no conclusive evidence” the contact occurred outside the area.

#SOULIV – 40’

The referee’s decision to award a penalty for Robertson’s challenge on Dibling was reviewed and upheld by VAR, which concluded that there was no clear evidence to suggest the contact took place outside the penalty area.

— Premier League Match Centre (@PLMatchCentre) November 24, 2024

The statement read: “The referee’s call of penalty for the challenge by Robertson on Dibling is checked and confirmed by VAR, who deemed there was no conclusive evidence that the contact occurred outside the penalty area.”

After the break, Liverpool found themselves behind when Matheus Fernandes squeezed the ball past the keeper. However, two goals from Salah, including the penalty for Sugawara’s handball, put Liverpool back on top.

The Premier League issued another statement regarding the penalty: “The referee’s call of penalty for the handball by Sugawara is checked by VAR, who confirmed that he deliberately moved his arm towards the ball.”

#SOULIV – 81’

The referee’s decision to award a penalty for Sugawara’s handball was reviewed by VAR, which confirmed that he intentionally moved his arm towards the ball.

— Premier League Match Centre (@PLMatchCentre) November 24, 2024

With the win, Liverpool moved eight points clear at the Premier League summit. They now look ahead to their Champions League match against Real Madrid before facing a crucial top-of-the-table clash with Manchester City.

November 25, 2024
Howard Webb announces Premier League rule change affecting Liverpool

The Premier League has introduced several changes to the laws of the game this season, with Howard Webb clarifying the modified rules ahead of the 2024/25 campaign.

Howard Webb, head of the refereeing organization PGMOL, addressed the reduced number of penalties for handball in the Premier League this season. He explained that referees have relaxed their approach following feedback from teams about the excessive number of handball calls.

Last season, a notable 108 penalties were awarded, prompting complaints from clubs about the harshness of handball decisions, especially when a player’s arm was seen as being in a natural position. Changes to the handball rule now result in fewer penalties for unintentional handballs or when the arm is close to the body.

Significant revisions also include the issuance of yellow cards instead of reds for players who unintentionally obstruct a clear goal-scoring chance with handball. Webb elaborated on these modifications to the handball rule during an appearance on Match Officials Mic’d Up.

Webb, 53, stated: “We consulted with lots of stakeholders in the game during the latter part of last season, and the message we were being given is there’s clearly too many handball penalties being given in the English game in the Premier League for situations where players are playing fairly normally and naturally [where] we know players’ arms move.”

This change has been noticeable in the ongoing season. He continued: “So we said to the officials [to] look out for those situations where a player either deliberately handles the ball or has an arm that’s well away from the body.

“We have seen situations where the ball has hit an arm in the penalty area this season, but the referees have applied what we asked them to, and they’ve stepped away in terms of handball unless it’s deliberate or very clearly unjustifiable.”

Additionally, this season has featured a significant decrease in VAR interventions, with reviews occurring only when the referee’s on-field decision is clearly wrong.

Improved communication is part of the changes, including the new practice of displaying disallowed goals on stadium big screens.

Despite these updates, controversies regarding VAR have arisen this season. A notable incident involved Manchester United’s Bruno Fernandes against Tottenham, where he received a red card for a clash with James Maddison; the decision remained despite VAR officials observing that Fernandes slipped before the contact.

However, his red card was later rescinded following an appeal. This incident follows a June vote by Premier League clubs, including Liverpool and Everton, to retain VAR, with only Wolves opposing the continuation of the technology.

October 10, 2024
Match Preview: Wolverhampton Wanderers vs. Liverpool – Prediction, Team Updates, and Lineups

Wolverhampton Wanderers face a daunting challenge on Saturday evening as Gary O’Neil’s squad seeks their first victory of the 2024-25 Premier League season at home against Liverpool.

The hosts have gathered just one point from a potential 15 in the league so far, while Arne Slot’s team arrives at Molineux after a flawless start to their EFL Cup title defense.

Match preview

The prospects for Liverpool ahead of Saturday’s match are looking bright, especially after Wednesday’s events. Following their 5-1 victory over West Ham United that secured last season’s EFL Cup title, Slot’s side impressively replicated that scoreline in this season’s third round against the same team.

Diogo Jota and Cody Gakpo each scored twice as Liverpool began their title defense emphatically, building on a recent successful streak that included a 3-0 win against Bournemouth in their last Premier League match.

Luis Diaz continued his strong performance, scoring two goals against Bournemouth, while Darwin Nunez capped off the victory with a stunning curling shot, presenting Slot with various options in attack.

With a 3-1 win over AC Milan in their Champions League opener, the Reds have now secured three consecutive victories across different competitions in the past two weeks, placing them just one point behind Manchester City in the Premier League standings.

Despite Jurgen Klopp’s absence, Liverpool has maintained their ability to score heavily on the road, having netted multiple goals in their last five away matches across all tournaments and conceding only one goal in the 2024-25 Premier League season so far.

Saturday evening’s kickoff features the Premier League’s strongest defense against the joint-worst, as Wolves have conceded a concerning 14 goals—tied with Everton for the worst record—following last weekend’s disappointment at Villa Park.

O’Neil’s squad was performing well for about 70 minutes thanks to Matheus Cunha’s opening goal, but a late surge from their Champions League opponents saw Ollie Watkins, Ezri Konsa, and Jhon Duran stage a remarkable comeback in the West Midlands clash.

September has been a challenging month for Wolves supporters, with their team also suffering defeats to Brighton & Hove Albion in the EFL Cup and Newcastle United in the league, leaving them just above the bottom of the table, thanks to Everton.

Wolves have not struggled to score, registering at least one goal in their last six matches. However, they hold the longest active streak in the league without a clean sheet, having gone 17 games without one since their victory over Sheffield United in February.

The hosts risk making unwanted history by becoming the first team to lose three consecutive Premier League matches after leading at halftime. Additionally, they have lost their last three encounters with Liverpool, including a 2-0 defeat at Anfield during Klopp’s farewell in May.

Team News

For the second consecutive midweek game, Liverpool’s first-choice goalkeeper Alisson Becker was unavailable due to a muscle injury. However, Slot is optimistic that the Brazilian will recover in time for the weekend.

Consequently, Caoimhin Kelleher, who made several crucial saves last weekend, is likely to return to the bench. The only other injury concern for Liverpool is Harvey Elliott, who continues to be sidelined with a foot fracture.

The visiting manager might make as many as 10 changes from the EFL Cup victory over West Ham. Notably, two-goal scorer Jota was substituted after 59 minutes, while Nunez played the entire match, indicating that Jota could start this week.

Wolves’ collapse against Villa was partly due to a significant knee injury to defensive stalwart Yerson Mosquera, who may now be out for the remainder of the season. He is one of five players with knee issues, including Sasa Kalajdzic, Enso Gonzalez, Bastien Meupiyou, and Boubacar Traore. O’Neil might have Toti available to replace Mosquera in defense; otherwise, Santiago Bueno will partner Craig Dawson.

Left-back Rayan Ait-Nouri, who recently overcame fitness concerns, played the full 90 minutes against Villa, but a yellow card in this match would put him one booking away from suspension.

The hosts have also been affected by a virus running through the squad this week, although O’Neil did not specify which players were impacted.

Wolverhampton Wanderers possible starting lineup:
Johnstone; Semedo, S. Bueno, Dawson, Ait-Nouri; Bellegarde, Lemina, Andre, Gomes, Cunha; Larsen

Liverpool possible starting lineup:
Alisson; Alexander-Arnold, Konate, Van Dijk, Robertson; Mac Allister, Gravenberch; Salah, Szoboszlai, Diaz; Jota

We say: Wolverhampton Wanderers 1-3 Liverpool
Wolves often manage to create effective attacking sequences, but Mosquera’s absence will likely make them even more defensively vulnerable.

Liverpool won this matchup 3-1 last season, and a similar outcome seems plausible, as the formidable Reds remain in close pursuit of Manchester City at the top of the table.

September 27, 2024
Carragher dismisses Liverpool’s title hopes and selects a winner between Manchester City and Arsenal

Jamie Carragher has weighed in on the Premier League title race, asserting that Liverpool is not positioned to compete for the title this season. He speculates on whether Arsenal or Manchester City will be crowned champions and makes a bold prediction about Arne Slot’s potential success in the future.

Liverpool appointed Slot this summer as the replacement for Jurgen Klopp, who stepped down after nearly nine years due to exhaustion. Since taking over, Slot has led the team to five victories in six matches, with 13 goals scored and only two conceded. This has reignited hopes that Liverpool, who last won the Premier League in 2020, could reclaim the trophy, suggesting that the managerial change has benefited the club.

Despite the promising start, Carragher believes Manchester City will again be champions, stating that even Rodri’s anticipated absence won’t significantly impact them. After City managed a late 2-2 draw against Arsenal, Carragher shared his views on the Gary Neville Podcast: “I think it’ll be a little bit similar to last season where Liverpool are just slightly behind these two teams… really go for it next season when the manager knows everything about his squad and he looks at exactly who he wants to bring in.”

He elaborated on Liverpool’s shortcomings, noting, “He [Slot] hasn’t really bought anyone… it’s still last season’s team. I think Liverpool are the third-best team.”

Carragher discusses why Manchester City holds an advantage over Arsenal in the title race.

Carragher believes there is little separating Arsenal and Manchester City, as demonstrated by their recent 2-2 draw, but argues that Pep Guardiola’s team has the advantage. He stated, “Always when I look at the squads… I think they’ve just got a little bit more in those attacking areas.”

He noted that if Arsenal had secured the win, it would likely have been from a set-piece, acknowledging their proficiency in that area. However, he remarked, “you can’t win the game on set-pieces every week. I think Manchester City have the edge there.”

While Carragher is optimistic about Liverpool making the top four this season, his colleague Neville surprised many by predicting that Liverpool might not even finish in the top six. “The top four will look like?” Neville asked on *Stick to Football*. “We have to go Arsenal and Manchester City because we all collectively agree… I am not sure [on Liverpool getting top four].”

Carragher responded with surprise, asking, “Do you think Manchester United will get in, but Liverpool won’t?” Neville replied, “maybe,” prompting Carragher to quip, “You say this every season without fail. Bookmark this.”

Neville added, “Every season, yeah. I am quite often wrong as well… Surprise: Liverpool don’t finish in the top six.”

Liverpool identifies potential successor for Alexander-Arnold / Romano offers update on Zubimendi

Although Liverpool may not contend for the title this season, concerns about Trent Alexander-Arnold potentially leaving at the end of his contract have prompted the club to compile a list of possible replacements.

At the top of Slot’s wishlist is Bayer Leverkusen’s attacking right-back Jeremie Frimpong, who has a €40m exit clause set to activate next summer. Reports indicate that Frimpong is one of three Leverkusen players Liverpool is monitoring in preparation for the 2025 summer transfer window.

Additionally, Martin Zubimendi, a summer target who turned down a move to Liverpool, remains on the club’s radar, especially since he reportedly regrets his decision. Fabrizio Romano has provided an update, confirming that Liverpool still has interest in Zubimendi, though they have not yet received any official word about a change in his stance.

September 24, 2024
Match Preview: Liverpool vs. West Ham United – prediction, team news, and lineups

In their second consecutive EFL Cup clash, Liverpool hosts West Ham United on Wednesday at Anfield, kicking off their defense of the 2023-24 title.

Both Premier League teams enter the match after contrasting 3-0 results over the weekend; Liverpool triumphed over Bournemouth, while West Ham fell to Chelsea.

Match Preview

Although Jurgen Klopp has never secured a quadruple during his successful tenure at Liverpool, his last trophy was the EFL Cup, marking the club’s second win in three years and extending their record to ten titles. Virgil van Dijk’s extra-time header against Chelsea in the final not only denied Mauricio Pochettino his first trophy in England but also established Liverpool as the first team to reach double digits in EFL Cup victories.

As they embark on their quest for an 11th title, Liverpool has adjusted well under new manager Slot, aside from a surprising home defeat to Nottingham Forest. They rebounded impressively with a comeback win against AC Milan in the Champions League and moved briefly to the top of the Premier League after their victory over Bournemouth, featuring Luis Diaz’s two goals and a stunning third from Darwin Nunez.

Although Liverpool recently lost their top spot to Manchester City, they haven’t exited the EFL Cup in the third round for six years, and they last suffered a defeat at Anfield in this competition in October 2020 against Arsenal.

West Ham fans may approach Anfield with cautious optimism, especially after their team’s poor showing against Chelsea, where they struggled defensively, conceding two goals to Nicolas Jackson and having a Mohammed Kudus effort disallowed for offside.

Under Lopetegui, West Ham has had limited success, currently sitting in 14th place with just one win from their first five league matches. However, they did achieve an EFL Cup victory over Bournemouth in August, and they famously defeated Arsenal in the fourth round last year before being overwhelmed by Liverpool in the quarter-finals, losing 5-1.

Team News

Liverpool will miss long-term absentee Harvey Elliott, who is recovering from a foot fracture. Alisson Becker also missed the Bournemouth match due to a muscle injury, leaving his availability for Wednesday uncertain. Caoimhin Kelleher is expected to start in goal, having made crucial saves over the weekend.

Summer signing Federico Chiesa may make his first start for Liverpool, likely replacing Mohamed Salah, while Joe Gomez could feature in a revamped lineup.

West Ham is expected to make changes following their dismal performance against Chelsea, with Niclas Fullkrug likely sidelined due to a calf injury. Tomas Soucek is expected to return to the starting lineup, alongside potential starters Carlos Soler, Jean-Clair Todibo, and Michail Antonio, with Lukasz Fabianski set to take over in goal.

Predicted Lineups:

Liverpool: Kelleher; Bradley, Gomez, Quansah, Tsimikas; Endo, Morton; Chiesa, Jones, Gakpo; Jota

West Ham United: Fabianski; Coufal, Todibo, Kilman, Emerson; Soler, Soucek; Bowen, Paqueta, Kudus; Antonio

Prediction: Liverpool 3-1 West Ham United

Despite both managers making significant changes, West Ham’s attacking players could pose a threat to Liverpool’s relatively inexperienced defense this season.

However, West Ham’s 3-0 defeat to Chelsea was indicative of their struggles, and Liverpool is expected to secure a comfortable win.

September 23, 2024
Manchester United vs. Liverpool – Projected Starting XIs and teams news

The 2024–2025 Premier League season is well under way, with plenty of activity happening quickly. This weekend at Old Trafford, two of the nation’s fiercest rivals square off as Manchester United hosts Liverpool in the third week of the league.

Joshua Zirkzee’s late debut goal against Fulham gave Ten Hag’s team a great start, but a week later, Joao Pedro of Brighton upset the Red Devils with a stoppage-time winner. Liverpool, on the other hand, has won two straight games by a score of 2-0 to easily navigate through the first two weeks of play. They are currently one of only four teams to have won every game thus far. They are full of confidence and faith in Arne Slot’s recently instilled beliefs going into this weekend’s match.

When the two north-west titans met in the US for their respective pre-season tours earlier this year, fans got to see the match between the two Dutch tacticians. Even though it was only a friendly, Arne Slot’s squad destroyed the opposition 3-0, and he’ll be wanting to see it happen again. However, Ten Hag will be focused on repairing his side’s reputation while also getting the season form record back on track.

Manchester United Team News

Erik Ten Hag compelled into changes

Initially, it was believed that Mason Mount’s substitution for Zirkzee at halftime was a tactical move, but Ten Hag subsequently disclosed that the decision was made due to fitness concerns. The former Chelsea player had a miserable rookie campaign hampered by injuries last year, and this might regrettably be another in the same family.

Mount enters the club’s medical treatment room alongside Luke Shaw, Leny Yoro, and Rasmus Hojlund, all of whom have chronic ailments. It is very possible that Scott McTominay has already played his last minute while wearing a Manchester United shirt since he is about to accept a contract with the Italian team Napoli.

The Red Devils intend to replace the departing Scotsman with PSG’s midfield anchorman, Manuel Ugarte, as soon as possible. The Uruguayan may be able to register in time for the Sunday match, but it might be too optimistic to expect him to be called up right away for the starting lineup.

Man United’s potential starting lineup

Since Hojlund left the center-forward position vacant, Bruno Fernandes has been used as a temporary false nine. Fans may have expected more, but the results haven’t been as abundant as they have been, especially since Zirkzee joined the team. The former Bayern Munich player, who has scored in two substitute appearances, ought to lead the team at Old Trafford.

As a result, Fernandes ought likely take Mount’s spot at number 10, with Marcus Rashford and Amad Diallo filling in on either flank. Casemiro is probably going to hold his place for the foreseeable future, as it might be too soon for the soon-to-be United midfielder, Ugarte.

A concerning lack of containment from Brighton’s attacking force at the Amex last week may prompt some defensive adjustments, particularly considering Liverpool’s overwhelming offensive strength. After joining for £43 million from the Bavarians, Matthijs de Ligt has made two appearances as a substitute, but Ten Hag may be about to give the Dutch international his first-team debut. The remainder of the defence should hold true aside from that.

Liverpool Team News:

Slot has no fresh concerns.

Slot will be somewhat satisfied with the state of his players, especially considering the severity of the injury issue that is plaguing Manchester United’s first team.

One of the rare fitness issues is Curtis Jones. Slot, who was not present at the latest match against Brentford, claimed it wasn’t a significant setback, although it is unclear if he will be available this weekend. Due to Jarrel Quansah’s fitness concerns during the same tie with the Bees, Ibrahima Konate played the first ninety minutes of the season. The 21-year-old was previously hooked after 45 minutes in the opening game against Ipswich Town, suggesting that the Frenchman would be favoured to start again.

Liverpool’s potential starting lineup

An inert eleven for the Reds

Liverpool should be able to go about their business as usual after two straight convincing wins. Konate is already participating and playing well, so there’s no need to deviate from the dependable five at the back.

Ryan Gravenberch, a 22-year-old sensation, has found a spot in the centre of midfield under Slot, while Mac Allister and Szoboszlai, who have more experience, should continue either side in the middle of the park.

Luiz Diaz, Diogo Jota, and Mohammad Salah have all scored goals for Liverpool this season, accounting for all four of the team’s total goals. The three are clearly doing a great job in their positions, and this weekend they should be put to use again.

August 29, 2024
Preview: Ipswich Town vs. Liverpool lineups, team news, and prediction

At 12.30pm on Saturday afternoon, Ipswich Town and Liverpool will start off their respective Premier League seasons at Portman Road, ushering in two new eras.

The Reds are getting ready for their first competitive game under Arne Slot’s tutelage as the Tractor Boys prepare to return from their protracted banishment from the English football premier league.

Match preview

Jurgen Klopp may have had some issues with the fixture organisers when his team was assigned the early start time, but he can now relax and enjoy the match on Saturday as a fan while Slot rallies his troops in the morning. Klopp was not pleased that Liverpool was handed the first 12.30pm kickoff of the new season.

Nearly seven months have passed since Klopp shockingly announced that the 2023–24 season would be his final one at Anfield. Although he departed with another EFL Cup winners’ medal hung around his neck, Premier League dominance turned out to be too much.

Even so, Tottenham Hotspur’s failed attempt to sign former Feyenoord manager Slot in 2023 will be leading the Reds back into the Champions League this season, albeit in a different format, and the new manager bounce appeared to be in full swing throughout preseason.

Liverpool started the summer off with a shocking 1-0 loss to Preston North End in a private match, but they bounced back to win four straight against legendary teams Real Betis, Arsenal, Manchester United, and Sevilla, before playing to a scoreless tie in a low-key match at an empty Anfield against Las Palmas.

Slot has already made a few statements this summer, but the same cannot be said of Liverpool’s transfer gurus. The Reds’ impatient supporters are still waiting for their first summer addition, and the team is giving contracts to players like Virgil van Dijk, Trent Alexander-Arnold, and Mohamed Salah priority.

On the other hand, after Ipswich’s second consecutive promotion, a lot of new players have entered through the Portman Road doors. Last season, the 2022–23 League One runners-up narrowly lost to Leicester City in the Championship.

Having only played in the lower divisions since their demotion in the 2001–02 season, the Tractor Boys’ second-place finish was nonetheless enough to catapult them back into the top level 22 years after their most recent Premier League venture.

Kieran McKenna, the head coach, is said to have attracted interest from Chelsea and Manchester United as a result of his excellent work. However, the 38-year-old turned down the opportunity to advance in the football hierarchy in favour of signing a new deal at Portman Road.

Similar to their next opponents, Liverpool, Ipswich’s preseason preparations were overwhelmingly successful under McKenna, who led the team to three consecutive 1-0 triumphs over Shakhtar Donetsk, Hoffenheim, and Nice. The lone defeat came at the hands of Fortuna Dusseldorf, who defeated them 2-1.

Although Ipswich’s summer games were largely low-scoring affairs, since McKenna assumed leadership in December 2021, the team has scored 222 goals, ranking second in England’s top four divisions, only surpassed by Manchester City’s 239 goals. Conversely, during their two Premier League matches against Liverpool in 2001–02, the Tractor Boys shipped 11 goals in 180 minutes, losing 6-0 at Portman Road in an embarrassing fashion.

Team news

Bobby Clark’s back ailment appeared to be the only injury issue for Liverpool heading to Ipswich; but, the teenage midfield player is now rumoured to be close to signing a £10 million deal to join Pep Lijnders’ Red Bull Salzburg.

Because Andrew Robertson played an hour of the Las Palmas match after returning from his Euro 2024 injury, Arne Slot should have all of his players ready for his Premier League baptism. The Scotsman should be OK to bomb down the left here.

Despite their contractual issues, Salah, Van Dijk, and Alexander-Arnold are also certain starters. However, there have been rumours that Slot is not too fond of Ibrahima Konate, who began the Las Palmas friendly while Jarell Quansah was selected in front of the supporters against Sevilla.

However, Cameron Humphreys (unspecified) is a serious doubt. In contrast, the Ipswich medical staff is recovering a few players, including Harry Clarke (Achilles), George Hirst (knee), Nathan Broadhead (thigh), and Janoi Donacien (adductor).

Nine players, including former Arsenal and Chelsea prodigy Omari Hutchinson, have signed permanent contracts to join Portman Road this summer. At least a few of them, like Arijanet Muric, Liam Delap, Jacob Greaves, and others, should start in the starting lineup right away.

Although Kalvin Phillips of Manchester City is rumoured to be close to joining the Tractor Boys on loan, Massimo Luongo and Sam Morsy should get together in the engine room first.

Isswich Potential starting lineup: Muric, Johnson, Luongo, Morsy, Davis; Hutchinson, Delap, Harness; Tuanzebe, Edmundson, Greaves

Liverpool’s potential starting lineup: Alisson; Alexander-Arnold, Quansah, Van Dijk, Robertson; Szoboszlai, Gravenberch, Mac Allister; Salah, Jota, Diaz

Prediction: Ipswich Town 0–2 Liverpool

It’s not impossible that Ipswich will switch to a three-man centre defensive structure to contain Slot’s Liverpool, but the full-strength Reds will eventually tire down their hosts’ defence.

Given their defensive strength during the preseason, McKenna’s team should still be able to maintain a fair scoreline, but we can only imagine Liverpool returning north with their first three points of the Slot era.

August 16, 2024
Liverpool vs. Wolves: verified team news, expected starting lineup, and most recent injury updates for Jurgen Klopp’s final match Sunday.

Sunday marks the end of an era for the Reds

Liverpool may welcome back Andy Robertson for Jurgen Klopp’s farewell match against Wolves.

Due to a small concern, the captain of Scotland missed Monday’s 3-3 draw with Aston Villa. However, following the game, Klopp stated that Robertson might return to the squad.

The German stated, “I saw him this morning and he told me he’s ready to train from tomorrow on.” “That is the circumstances.”

Diogo Jota was observed working out earlier this week, but it’s unclear if he’ll be well enough to play a significant role.

Joel Matip, Ben Doak, and Thiago Alcantara won’t be available for Klopp, but the majority of his team should be available.

This summer, Matip and Thiago will both depart the team, the club confirmed on Friday.

As one of the best managers the club has ever had bids farewell, it looks like it will be an emotional day at Anfield.

The football world was taken aback by Klopp’s announcement in January that he would be leaving Liverpool at the end of the current campaign; a replacement has not yet been named.

Arne Slot, the manager of Feyenoord, has openly expressed his wish to succeed Klopp, although there has been no formal word about his possible arrival as of yet.

Liverpool Team News

Joel Matip and Thiago Alcantara, who left Liverpool as free agents during the summer transfer window, will not be playing this season. Due to a muscle ailment, Diogo Jota must miss action, ending his campaign early.

Alisson Becker will start in goal for Liverpool as they line up in a 4-3-3 formation against Wolverhampton Wanderers. As the starting full-backs, Trent Alexander-Arnold and Andrew Robertson will aim to support the offence and offer defensive protection for the team. At the centre of the defence, starting with Virgil van Dijk is Ibrahima Konate.

Wataru Endo will begin the game as the defensive midfielder for the midfield unit, whose job it is to thwart attacks by the opposition. On either side of him, Dominik Szoboszlai and Alexis Mac Allister will try to provide some imagination and authority.

Last but not least, Darwin Nunez will start at the front for Liverpool against Wolverhampton Wanderers, with Luis Diaz to his left and Mohamed Salah to his right. Cody Gakpo will therefore be a bench option for the home team.

Liverpool predicted XI: Alisson; Alexander-Arnold, Quansah, Van Dijk, Robertson; Endo, Mac Allister, Elliott; Salah, Gakpo, Diaz

Doubts: Jota

Injured: Doak, Matip, Thiago

Date and Time: 4pm BST on Sunday 19 May, 2024

Location: Anfield

More news……

Prediction

Liverpool 3-1 Wolverhampton Wanderers

In addition to having the superior team, Liverpool is the clear favourite in this match. It will be anticipated that they will win easily at home. Compared to the opponents, the Reds have been playing better, thus Wolves should have trouble here.

Once again, the away team will fall short, and a victory at home seems likely. In the end, Liverpool ought to be able to grind out all three points. They possess the offensive ability to inflict more suffering on the guests in this place. Thus, on Sunday at Anfield, Jurgen Klopp will leave triumphant and filled with emotion.

May 18, 2024
Preview: Aston Villa vs. Liverpool: team news, line-ups and prediction

In the penultimate round of Premier League matches, Aston Villa and Liverpool will face off at Villa Park on Monday night. Third will face fourth.

Prior to Jurgen Klopp’s final away game, the Reds have already been guaranteed a spot in the Champions League for the upcoming season; nevertheless, the Lions can join them at the top table of Europe if they earn the most points.

Unai Emery’s past fondness for winning on the continent did not translate into a spot for Aston Villa in the Europa Conference League final this time around. Olympiacos, a Greek powerhouse, defeated the Lions 4-2 in the first leg to secure their spot in the showpiece.

Ayoub El Kaabi of Olympiacos guaranteed that he would be haunting Lions’ dreams for a little while longer with a second-leg brace, ensuring that the Greek giants would battle it out with Fiorentina for European stardom on May 29. As if Villa defenders weren’t already having nightmares about the hat-trick hero.

Aston Villa suffered a rare defeat in Premier League competition, losing 1-0 to Brighton & Hove Albion in the second of three straight games, either side of their two losses to Olympiacos. Under Emery’s guidance, though, they have never lost four games in a row.

Villa was denied the opportunity to finish fourth without striking a ball by Tottenham Hotspur’s victory over Championship-bound Burnley on Saturday. Nevertheless, Spurs are still four points ahead of Villa, and if they pick the right result on Monday, they will qualify for the Champions League once again.

Though Emery hasn’t yet managed back-to-back top-flight losses in 2023–24, the hosts have lost their Villa Park shine following their unprecedented 15–game winning streak at home, winning just three of their last eight Premier League games in front of their own supporters.

Jurgen Klopp, the opposite number of the Spaniard, has stated that his colleague ought to have had more time to work his magic at Arsenal. Last weekend, the rampaging Reds defeated Tottenham Hotspur, their North London rivals, at Anfield with four goals in quick succession.

Breaking free from their ruts against Everton and West Ham United, Liverpool scored goals through Cody Gakpo, Mohamed Salah, Andrew Robertson, Harvey Elliott, and Richarlison before Son Heung-min and Richarlison fuelled faint hopes of an unlikely comeback, which, predictably, did not materialise.

Liverpool’s mathematical elimination of Spurs from the Premier League maintained them in the battle for championship glory, but Manchester City’s decisive victory over Fulham on Saturday lunchtime has reduced the gap between the champions and Arsenal to just two points.

In Klopp’s final campaign, the Merseyside team will mourn the loss of their hopes of winning the Premier League, but they can at least extend an incredible May winning streak in the German manager’s final away game; the team hasn’t lost in 18 May games in the league since losing 1-0 to Chelsea in 2018.

If Aston Villa could replicate their incredible 7-2 victory from October, it would be an even bigger blow to Klopp’s farewell. However, in their last seven meetings with Monday’s opponents—who were convincing 3-0 winners at Anfield in September and have 16 Premier League away victories against Villa—the Lions have lost six and drawn one.

Team news

Emiliano Martinez, the team’s first choice custodian, was cleared to play Olympiacos in the middle of the week. However, Youri Tielemans (groyne), Alex Moreno (unspecified), and Nicolo Zaniolo (unspecified) will need to undergo late fitness tests.

Winger Morgan Rogers’ hamstring injury sustained in the Brighton defeat may end his season early, while known absences include Emiliano Buendia (knee), Tyrone Mings (knee), Boubacar Kamara (knee), and Jacob Ramsey (ankle).

Therefore, the only real alternatives for change are the young players coming out of the academy, such as Tim Ireogbunam, a 20-year-old midfielder who has made one Premier League start so far this season.

However, Clement Lenglet might offer some new blood at the back. With Diogo Jota (hip), Ben Doak (knee), Bobby Clark (unspecified), Thiago Alcantara (muscle), and Joel Matip (knee) still out due to injury, Liverpool’s availability is as it was.

piercing eyes Reds supporters noticed that Robertson was missing from the most recent batch of training photos. However, he was present at the AXA facility on Friday and looks prepared to play; in case he isn’t, Kostas Tsimikas and Joe Gomez are ready to fill in.

Elliott’s lack of playing time was Klopp’s one “regret” of the season, which he acknowledged. Gakpo, on the other hand, is undoubtedly a better choice than Darwin Nunez, about whom Klopp has made it clear that “no speculation” exists after the misfiring Uruguayan oddly erased almost all Liverpool-related content from his Instagram account.

Aston Villa possible starting lineup:
Lenglet, Digne; Diaby, Martinez; Cash, Torres, Luiz, McGinn, Bailey; Duran, Watkins

Liverpool possible starting lineup: Elliott, Endo, Mac Allister; Alisson; Alexander-Arnold, Quansah, Van Dijk, Robertson; Salah, Gakpo, Diaz

We predict: Aston Villa 2-3 Liverpool

Since the deadlock has been broken in the first five minutes of each of the last four meetings between Villa and Liverpool at Villa Park, fans might still be finding their seats when the first goal finds the back of the net on Monday.

But this time, Klopp’s team should be the ones to benefit from any rapid strikes because an injured Villa will be exhausted after their fruitless European adventures, both psychologically and physically, so they will have to wait to move up to fourth place officially behind Tottenham.

May 12, 2024