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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
Preview: Fulham vs. Liverpool: lineups, team news, and prediction

After competing in Europe for the last time under Jurgen Klopp, Liverpool will visit mid-table Fulham on Sunday to continue their pursuit of Premier League dominance.

A week has passed since the Reds’ Europa League campaign came to an end at the hands of Atalanta BC, but Marco Silva’s team has had a week to analyse a stunning 2-0 victory over West Ham United.

Match Preview

Fulham could have and arguably should have registered a more decisive margin of victory against a West Ham side preoccupied with thoughts of the Europa League if it weren’t for the heroics of a troubled Lukasz Fabianski, but Silva’s team was more than happy to declare at two.

Andreas Pereira scored both goals for the Cottagers at the London Stadium. In the first half, he took advantage of a mistake by Dinos Mavropanos and fired a shot into the top of the net. In the second half, he made an untracked run into the box and finished off a low cross from Alex Iwobi.

Fulham’s Premier League status for 2024–25 is guaranteed as a result of snapping a three-game losing streak in the top flight. They can now relax as they cruise to the finish line in 12th place, two points behind Brighton & Hove Albion in the top half despite having played one more game.

At the London Stadium, both of the Cottagers’ goals were scored by Andreas Pereira. He capitalised on a mistake made by Dinos Mavropanos to shoot high into the net during the first half. He made an untracked run into the area in the second half to finish off a low cross from Alex Iwobi.

Fulham’s elimination from the top division after a three-game losing streak guarantees them a spot in the Premier League for 2024–25. Now that they have played one more game, they can rest easy as they easily cross the finish line in 12th position, two points behind Brighton & Hove Albion in the top half.

Liverpool’s 1-0 victory over Atalanta BC in the second leg of their Europa League final proved irrelevant in the larger scheme of things, as La Dea easily moved to the last four thanks to last week’s incredible 3-0 Anfield carnage. It was a case of winning the battle but losing the war.

After Mohamed Salah’s early penalty gave the men in red hope for yet another incredible European comeback, the Egyptian lost a great opportunity to cut the deficit even further, and Jurgen Klopp’s team, like the manager himself, admitted when he announced his departure, just ran out of steam in the second half.

The way Liverpool played in the first half of the match in Bergamo should have given them hope, especially in light of the humiliating 1-0 Premier League home loss to Crystal Palace last weekend, which marked the Reds’ first Premier League loss at Anfield in 18 months thanks to a goal from Eberechi Eze.

But with leaders Manchester City playing in the FA Cup and Arsenal, who trail only on goal differential, having a difficult away game against Wolverhampton Wanderers, Liverpool could put a smile back on their supporters’ faces at Craven Cottage, where a win might be enough to catapult them to the top for a little while.

The Reds’ inability to score in seven halves of play may worry some people, but Silva’s team gave Klopp’s team a great run for their money when they defeated Fulham 4-3 at Anfield in December’s Premier League match and 3-2 over two legs in the EFL Cup semifinals.

Team News

With the exception of Fulham, who once again have a fully-fit squad for Liverpool’s visit, nineteen Premier League sides now have at least one injured player in the infirmary.

Due to the amount of chances his squad produced last weekend, Silva will undoubtedly feel no need to change the winning recipe; therefore, Harry Wilson should be content to start on the bench against his former team.

Sunday will see the highly-motivated Rodrigo Muniz attempt to snap a three-game goal drought, while London Stadium hero Pereira leads the charge as the number ten. Pereira became the first player from the Cottagers to score twice in an away Premier League London derby since Dimitar Berbatov did so against Arsenal in 2012.

Although there is a noticeable amount of space in the Liverpool treatment room, Ben Doak (knee), Joel Matip (knee), and Thiago Alcantara (muscle) are still out of the team, and Conor Bradley (ankle) will need a few weeks to heal from his injury from last weekend.

Stefan Bajcetic’s availability is also in doubt because the 19-year-old, who just returned from a calf issue for the Under-21s last Friday, was unable to travel to Bergamo. Klopp also acknowledged after Thursday’s victory that Trent Alexander-Arnold and Alexis Mac Allister were both playing below par.

As a result, Wataru Endo and Joe Gomez ought to get ready for calls back to the starting lineup, while Darwin Nunez and Diogo Jota, who are at different ends of the big chances converted spectrum, ought to bolster the attacking triad.

Possible starting lineup for Liverpool: Elliott, Endo, Szoboszlai; Salah, Nunez, Jota; Alisson; Gomez, Quansah, Van Dijk, Robertson

Fulham possible starting lineup:
Pereira, Willian; Muniz Leno; Castagne, Adarabioyo, Bassey, Robinson; Palhinha, Lukic; Iwobi

Prediction: Liverpool 1-1 Fulham

Fulham’s home defensive record this season is better only by Man City, Arsenal, and Liverpool; in their previous 15 Craven Cottage games, the Cottagers have conceded less goals per game on average. Silva’s team has already taken Liverpool to three different ends of the pitch in 2023–24.

The Reds haven’t scored from open play in more than five hours. Although Klopp may offset Europa League weariness with a number of substitutions, we can see Fulham, the host team’s specialists, holding out for a point to severely hurt their opponents’ title hopes.

April 20, 2024
Preview: Liverpool vs Burnley: lineups, team news, and prediction

When Liverpool exit the pitch on Saturday for their match against Burnley at Anfield, they might have already lost their Premier League position.

Last Saturday, the Reds’ hopes of winning the title were dealt one of the biggest blows yet as they lost 3-1 to Arsenal, while Vincent Kompany’s team rallied from a 2-0 deficit to draw 2-2 with Fulham.

Match Preview

It wouldn’t be entirely inaccurate to characterise Liverpool’s performance at the Emirates last weekend as a defensive disasterclass. The Reds’ 15-match Premier League winning streak and 11-game winning streak across all competitions, which had persisted since their previous trip to North London, came to an abrupt end.

An odd After Bukayo Saka had broken the deadlock, Gabriel Magalhaes’ own goal may have pulled Liverpool even against the run of play, but in the second half, Alisson Becker and Virgil van Dijk combined for a defensive mishap that gave Gabriel Martinelli an open goal before the latter was beaten at his near post by Leandro Trossard in added time.

Jurgen Klopp was devastated by Ibrahima Konate’s dismissal, as his team left the Emirates bruised, bloodied, and rightfully defeated. The German manager went on to claim that “everything” went wrong for his team on their fruitless trip to the capital.

In terms of Premier League rankings, Liverpool is still unbeaten, but their lead over Arsenal and Manchester City is now just two points. The Citizens, who have a game in hand, have the opportunity to move up to second place by defeating Everton in the midday kickoff.

The Merseyside audience has witnessed the Reds escape loss in twenty-three of their previous top-flight matches, so redemption will be the order of the day at Anfield. However, Burnley has the slimmest chance of winning after six straight games without a clean sheet at home in all competitions.

As Liverpool pursued title glory all the way to the finish, Steven Gerrard famously nearly pulled off an Etihad surprise with his Aston Villa team on the last day of the 2021–22 season. Even if the stakes might not be as high in February, Man City legend Vincent Kompany can still lend a helpful hand to his former employers on Merseyside.

One of the most predictable results in the Premier League this season—the Clarets losing at Turf Moor—was about to happen when Joao Palhinha and Rodrigo Muniz put Fulham two goals ahead by halftime last weekend. The Belgian’s Citizens reunion on January 31 went as planned as Burnley lost 3-1 to the champions.

But Chelsea loanee David Datro Fofana used his super-sub abilities once more with a late brace, scoring his second of the afternoon in the first minute of injury time, and allowing himself to be hounded by the jubilant Lancashire supporters after providing an assist off the bench against Man City.

The visitors’ situation is still dire, though, as their 13 points are only one point over Sheffield United, the team in the cellar, while the 19th-place Clarets are seven points below the 17th-place Luton Town, who still have a game remaining.

Although their team has scored in each of their last four Premier League away games, the travelling supporters should find some solace in the fact that they have lost their last four Premier League games against Liverpool, who triumphed 2-0 on Boxing Day at Turf Moor.

Jarell Quansah will have the opportunity to play alongside Van Dijk in the middle of defence this weekend as Liverpool centre back Konate serves a one-game ban after being forced to face the walk of shame for two bookable offences on Sunday.

Thiago Alcantara, Alexis Mac Allister, and Darwin Nunez—who is playing for the first time since April—were all deemed healthy to take on the Gunners. However, Dominik Szoboszlai was a late scratch from the squad due to a thigh issue, and it’s unclear if Conor Bradley will play this weekend after his father passed away.

Wataru Endo ought to be back at Klopp’s disposal after Japan’s elimination from the Asian Cup last weekend. Stefan Bajcetic (calf), Mohamed Salah (thigh), Kostas Tsimikas (collarbone), and Joel Matip (knee) are still restricted to the hospital.

Burnley’s two injured players, Luca Koleosho (knee) and Nathan Redmond (thigh), will watch this match from the sidelines. Charlie Taylor, an Englishman, can relate to Liverpool’s left-backs because he is dealing with a shoulder issue.

While fellow defender Hjalmar Ekdal only played until halftime against Fulham before being replaced by Montpellier HSC loanee Maxime Esteve, who is now expected to make his Clarets debut, Jordan Beyer (thigh) and Hannes Delcroix (knock) are also on Kompany’s touch-and-go list.

Datro Fofana could have done more to push his way into the visitors’ two-pronged assault after his exploits against the Cottagers; Zeki Amdouni or Lyle Foster should make room for the Ivorian.

Liverpool possible starting lineup:
Alisson; Alexander-Arnold, Quansah, Van Dijk, Robertson; Jones, Endo, Mac Allister; Jota, Nunez, Diaz

Burnley possible starting lineup:
Trafford; Assignon, O’Shea, Esteve, Vitinho; Gudmundsson, Berge, Brownhill, Odobert; Datro Fofana, Foster

Prediction: Liverpool 4-1 Burnley
When Burnley hosted Liverpool over the Christmas break, they performed admirably, and given the Reds’ tendency to give up goals at home and the Clarets’ propensity for scoring goals away from home, no clean sheets should be kept this weekend.

Even so, Klopp’s team comes into the Anfield roar with more than one point to prove. Expect the injured hosts, who score almost three goals at home in Premier League games, to run wild against their relegation-threatened opponents.

February 8, 2024
Preview: Liverpool vs. Newcastle United: lineups, info about the teams and prediction

The Premier League’s New Year’s Day schedule for 2024 includes a battle of the North when Liverpool hosts Newcastle United at their Anfield base on Monday.

The Reds’ 2-0 victory over Burnley on Boxing Day put them atop the table, while Nottingham Forest’s 3-1 home victory over the Magpies last time out left them humbled.

Match Preview

In Liverpool’s thrilling pre-Christmas draw with leaders Arsenal, wasted opportunities came back to haunt the team. Jurgen Klopp’s team nearly suffered a similar fate at Turf Moor, when chance after chance went begging following Darwin Nunez’s beautiful opener.

But even as the supporters of Burnley started to speak up following two Reds goals that were called back—one much more controversial than the other—Vince Kompany’s team was unable to take advantage of the situation, and Diogo Jota sealed the victory for Liverpool in the 90th minute with a shot from an extremely close angle.

At Turf Moor, goals from Harvey Elliott and Cody Gakpo were disallowed. Klopp called the latter strike “insane” because he believed Mohamed Salah was interfering from an offside position. However, Liverpool currently holds first place after Arsenal lost to West Ham United at home a few days later.

It remains to be seen, though, if the Reds will ring in the New Year on top. Arsenal can reclaim their position temporarily by defeating Fulham on New Year’s Eve; before that, a fantastic nine goals would take Aston Villa to the top against Burnley.

They won four of their next five games to draw one, but they haven’t lost on New Year’s Day since 2005. They won their first eleven home games of the new season and then drew their last three matches at Anfield, which may have soured the mood a little.

On the other hand, the Newcastle supporters, who were doomed to their sixth defeat in seven games against Nuno Espirito Santo’s Nottingham Forest because of a former marksman, will be hoping that the fresh Year will infuse fresh life into their undermanned and underperforming team.

Although Alexander Isak scored the opening goal from the penalty spot, Chris Wood’s incredible hat-trick of three exquisite left-footed goals startled St James’ Park and derailed the Boxing Day celebrations in the Northeast.

With the exception of victories against Fulham and Manchester United at home, December was a forgettable month for the Magpies, who currently sit in ninth position in the table and are considered European outsiders. However, it is unlikely that Howe’s team will go any lower at this point.

Given Newcastle’s early European exit, the fixture calendar may not appear as intimidating as it once did, but the Magpies still have games against Aston Villa and Manchester City this month, in addition to an intriguing FA Cup third-round matchup with rivals Sunderland the following weekend.

Prior to facing their opponents, Howe’s team must first put an end to a dismal four-game losing streak on the road at Anfield, where they lost 2-1 to a late Fabio Carvalho goal in the previous season and by the same score at St. James’ Park in August after a Nunez-inspired comeback.

Team news

Six well-known injury issues will not be available for Liverpool to play with in 2024: Kostas Tsimikas (collarbone), Ben Doak (knee), Joel Matip (knee), Stefan Bajcetic (calf), Thiago Alcantara (hip), and Andrew Robertson (shoulder).

Alexis Mac Allister, who is nearing recovery from a serious knee cut, will also require evaluation by the medical staff. If well enough, he might make it into the matchday roster, but a start is probably out of the question.

Wataru Endo had a great December playing at number six, and he will probably return to that position on New Year’s Day. However, after being benched at Turf Moor, most, if not all, of Dominik Szoboszlai, Ibrahima Konate, and Luis Diaz should be recalled.

Newcastle’s injury list has dropped below ten players, but eight injured soldiers are expected to stay out of action in addition to Sandro Tonali, who will serve the remaining portion of his betting ban for the first eight months of 2024.

However, Joelinton was cleared to start on the bench on Boxing Day following his hamstring worry. Nick Pope (shoulder), Jacob Murphy (shoulder), Harvey Barnes (foot), Jamaal Lascelles (groyne), Elliot Anderson (back), Javi Manquillo (groyne), Joe Willock (calf), and Matt Targett (thigh) are still out.

Given the unexpected effect of the inexperienced Lewis Miley, the Brazilian should put Sean Longstaff’s spot in the starting lineup in jeopardy. Howe might also be tempted to replace Dan Burn with Tino Livramento, but the former’s massive frame might be useful against Virgil van Dijk.

Liverpool possible starting lineup:
Alisson; Alexander-Arnold, Konate, Van Dijk, Gomez; Szoboszlai, Endo, Gravenberch; Salah, Gakpo, Nunez

Newcastle United possible starting lineup:
Dubravka; Trippier, Schar, Botman, Burn; Joelinton, Guimaraes, Miley; Almiron, Isak, Gordon

Prediction: Liverpool 3-1 Newcastle United

The 10th time in the Premier League that Liverpool has overcome the Magpies after falling down is remarkable; it is more than any other matchup in the history of the tournament. However, the hosts shouldn’t have to summon their reserves of resilience on Monday.

Klopp’s team is still a little worried about their ability to convert opportunities, but since Newcastle is still unable to find a way to win away from home, the table-topping Reds should start 2024 as strong as possible.

December 30, 2023
Preview: Liverpool vs. Arsenal: lineups, news about the teams, and prediction

The most anticipated Premier League match of the season is the top-of-the-table match between Liverpool and Arsenal, which takes place at Anfield on Saturday night.

At this stage, the Gunners lead their Merseyside rivals by one point, but Aston Villa is also very close behind and ready to take advantage of any mistakes made by their podium opponents.

Match Preview

Manchester United prepared to expose Liverpool to a 90-minute tirade last Saturday, as Jurgen Klopp’s team relentlessly attacked the Red Devils’ door in an attempt to gain an advantage, refusing to give any early Christmas presents to their fierce rivals.

Liverpool faced an incredible 34 shots in the Premier League match, the most they had had in a match without scoring since 2003, but Man United came away with a point thanks to their relentless attacking prowess and a few outstanding defensive performances (Raphael Varane in particular deserved his keep).

Liverpool’s performance in Wednesday’s EFL Cup quarterfinal matchup against West Ham United was far from the merciless attacking unit that defeated the Red Devils 7-1 in March. However, Klopp’s team brought the blue-touch paper back, putting on a five-star show in a 5-1 thumping to set up a semi-final matchup with Fulham.

However, Klopp acknowledged that he was disappointed by what he perceived to be a lack of Anfield atmosphere in midweek after watching his charges lose points at home for the first time this season over the weekend. Klopp then issued a rallying cry to supporters as Liverpool looks to avoid losing scoreless in back-to-back Premier League home games for the first time since March 2021.

Before losing to the Red Devils’ defensive dominance, the hosts had bulged the net in 26 straight Premier League games. However, their current winning streak in the league is 10 games, and it has been almost 14 months since Leeds United’s last home loss to Liverpool in the top flight.

Since Brighton & Hove Albion shot to prominence, Arsenal supporters have become all too familiar with the Seagulls’ home losses. However, last weekend at the Emirates, Mikel Arteta’s team clipped Roberto De Zerbi’s team’s wings and took back the top spot in the standings.

A similar scenario played out in the first half of Sunday’s match, one week after an agonising 1-0 loss to Aston Villa, where the Gunners were also their own worst enemies in front of goal. However, thanks to goals from Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus in the second half, and a header from Jesus in the first, Arsenal made sure that their earlier missed opportunities would not come back to haunt them.

The Gunners would be staring down the other 19 Premier League teams for at least a few hours after defeating the team captained by De Zerbi, who declared boldly that Arsenal is currently the best team in the country. Arteta’s team could now be atop the rankings on Christmas Day for the second year running.

Naturally, Arsenal’s status as the “winter champions” was eliminated at the end of the 2022–2023 season, but now that Manchester City is suffering through a December drought and has also postponed their title defence in order to compete for Club World Cup glory, the time has come for the Gunners to bury another championship marker.

Despite the defeat at the Villa Park fortress on December 9, Arteta’s charges haven’t lost back-to-back Premier League games on rival ground since May 2022. Additionally, Arsenal has won their subsequent road match on each of their previous six away losses before being shut down in the West Midlands.

Last season, Arsenal defeated Liverpool 3-2 at the Emirates in two thrilling goals, but they were held to a 2-2 draw at Anfield, where the Reds overcame a 2-0 deficit to win a share of the spoils. Not since Lukas Podolski and Santi Cazorla in 2012 have the Gunners triumphed in a top-tier match.

Team news

This weekend, a few long-term Liverpool absentees will still be unable to play: Stefan Bajcetic (calf), Thiago Alcantara (hip), Joel Matip (ACL), Andrew Robertson (shoulder), Diogo Jota (muscle), Alexis Mac Allister (knee), and recent knee injury Ben Doak are all out.

Although it was initially thought that Ryan Gravenberch had injured his hamstring against Manchester United last weekend, the former Bayern Munich player was only experiencing delayed onset of muscle soreness (DOMS). After taking a midweek break, Gravenberch is expected to rejoin the team on Saturday.

Gravenberch might, however, have to settle for a berth among the substitutes, as Curtis Jones has undoubtedly gained Klopp’s attention after an outstanding brace in Wednesday’s victory over West Ham, where Dominik Szoboszlai also answered recent criticism with a spectacular first-half goal.

Similarly, Jurrien Timber (knee), Fabio Vieira (groyne), Takehiro Tomiyasu (calf), and Thomas Partey (thigh), who has the least chance of playing, will not be available for Arsenal when they travel to Merseyside.

Arsenal’s midfield reserves have been further reduced by new issues with Mohamed Elneny (hamstring) and Jorginho (foot). Against Brighton, the only options available to Arsenal off the bench were Myles Lewis-Skelly and Emile Smith Rowe, but the former two are fighting to be fit in time for Saturday.

But neither player should push their way into an established Arsenal starting lineup that currently selects itself, as Havertz looks to build on his November Player of the Month award-winning performance.

Liverpool possible starting lineup:
Alisson; Alexander-Arnold, Konate, Van Dijk, Tsimikas; Szoboszlai, Endo, Jones; Salah, Nunez, Diaz

Arsenal possible starting lineup:
Raya; White, Saliba, Gabriel, Zinchenko; Odegaard, Rice, Havertz; Saka, Jesus, Martinelli

we predict: Liverpool 2-2 Arsenal

All due respect to West Ham United, but playing a rested and fully-fit Arsenal team will be a very different proposition than playing a weakened Irons team. If Klopp’s call to arms is ignored, as it should not be, Liverpool’s 11-year winning streak against the Gunners at Anfield could be jeopardised.

Although Gooners may be worried about the next match between Mohamed Salah and Oleksandr Zinchenko, Liverpool showed on Wednesday that their wastefulness against Man United was an isolated incident. William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhaes are capable of shutting off any centre danger.

We really cannot choose a winner in what could be an enthralling match because Arteta’s team continues to be the comeback kings, even though Arsenal has also been guilty of recklessness at times this season.

December 21, 2023
Preview: Sheffield United vs. Liverpool: lineups, news about the teams and prediction.

Sheffield United returns to the Bramall Lane faithful when they welcome Liverpool in Wednesday’s Premier League match, amid rumours that Paul Heckingbottom may be fired.

against the weekend, Liverpool extended their unbeaten home record at Anfield with a thrilling 4-3 victory against Fulham, while the Blades were humiliated 5-0 by Burnley.

Match Preview.

Before Burnley’s trip to Turf Moor on Saturday, the Clarets had visited the pitch seven times during the 2023–24 Premier League season, and each time they had lost, creating an unwelcome new record for the tournament.

But within 15 seconds of the Lancashire kickoff, the demolition job was under way. Jay Rodriguez scored the fastest goal in the Premier League this year, followed by goals from Zeki Amdouni, Luca Koleosho, Josh Brownhill, and Jacob Bruun Larsen, all of which were scored in front of an irate Heckingbottom.

The Blades board has stuck by Heckingbottom despite the manager’s growing difficulties this season, but Saturday’s five-goal humiliation may be the last straw for the manager, as Sheffield United is reportedly considering firing Heckingbottom before Liverpool visits Bramall Lane.

Chris Wilder, the 56-year-old who led Sheffield United back to the top flight and to a remarkable top-half ranking in 2019–20, is reportedly close to making a Blades comeback. With the hosts currently at the bottom of the Premier League standings, Wilder will be returning to his former haunts.

Even if Sheffield United upsets Liverpool, they will still be below the dreaded dotted line since they have a four-point deficit to make up to 17th-place Luton Town. However, that notion may be dashed if they fail to record a single clean sheet in the 2023–24 Premier League season.

When Liverpool played Fulham on Sunday at Anfield, defences did not fare well either. Jurgen Klopp acknowledged that his team was penalised for being “a bit dumb” in the defensive third, but his team more than made up for their defensive flaws with four spectacular goals.

The Reds won 11 of their 11 home games in 2023–24 thanks to goals from Trent Alexander-Arnold in the 87th minute, Wataru Endo’s excellent finish, Bernd Leno’s own goal, Bobby Decordova-Reid, Kenny Tete, and Harry Wilson. This match also added to the ever-expanding list of memorable Premier League matches this season.

Unrestrained Merseyside excitement would not have subsided later in the evening either, as Klopp’s team enters the midweek schedule sitting second in the rankings, two points behind leaders Arsenal before the Gunners play Luton Town on Tuesday. This is due to Manchester City and Tottenham Hotspur’s incredible 3-3 draw.

The Anfield fortress’ walls are still untarnished, but Liverpool has only won one of its previous six away games across all competitions (a 2-1 EFL Cup triumph against Bournemouth), and in all ten of the team’s away games this season, the visitors have both scored and conceded.

Sheffield United has much-needed hope because of Liverpool’s four-game winning streak against promoted teams in the top level. However, the Reds have won five straight Premier League games against the Blades, whose previous victory in this matchup dates back to an EFL Cup match in 2003.

Team news

The manager of Wednesday’s match will be without striker Oli McBurnie, who was sent off for two elbows in his team’s crushing loss to Burnley. Heckingbottom was fired, and Wilder has not yet been confirmed to come back.

A hamstring injury also limited right-back George Baldock to just 25 minutes of play in that game. He will probably be sidelined on Wednesday. Other players who are undoubtedly out include Chris Basham (ankle), Tom Davies (thigh), Rhys Norrington-Davies (thigh), John Egan (ankle), Daniel Jebbison (illness), and former Liverpool attacker Rhian Brewster (thigh).

Jayden Bogle should start for the hosts in place of the suspended McBurnie, unless Baldock returns from the medical bay remarkably quickly. James McAtee is the most likely choice to rejoin.

Joel Matip, who appeared to suffer a knee injury during the second half of Liverpool’s seven-goal showdown with Fulham, pushed from the game; Klopp has acknowledged that the Cameroonian will not be out for a short while. This presents Liverpool with a fresh defensive injury concern.

Matip becomes the fifth member of the Liverpool team to be hospitalised; the other four are Alisson Becker (thigh), Diogo Jota (muscle), Andrew Robertson (shoulder), Thiago Alcantara (hip), and Stefan Bajcetic (calf).

Luckily for Klopp, Ibrahima Konate is healthy again and ready to immediately return to the starting lineup. With players like Joe Gomez, Curtis Jones, and Cody Gakpo vying for recalls, the Reds manager shouldn’t mind making a few adjustments here and there.

Sheffield United possible starting lineup:
Foderingham; Ahmedhodzic, Trusty, Robinson; Bogle, Souza, Norwood, Larouci; Hamer, McAtee; Archer

Liverpool possible starting lineup:
Kelleher; Alexander-Arnold, Konate, Van Dijk, Gomez; Szoboszlai, Mac Allister, Jones; Salah, Gakpo, Diaz

Prediction: Sheffield United 1-4 Liverpool

This season, Liverpool has had little success keeping opponents at bay on the road. The Reds were penalised for many careless play sequences against Fulham, during which Alisson Becker was not available to produce his usual game-saving saves.

A much-needed managerial change may give a battered Blades lineup new energy, but their defensive problems won’t go away quickly, and the hosts will face another punishing day against Liverpool’s prolific offensive unit.

December 4, 2023
Preview: Liverpool vs. Fulham: team news, lineups and prediction

In Sunday’s Premier League match, Liverpool hosts Fulham at their Anfield fortress in the hopes of maintaining their perfect home record in the 2023–24 campaign.

The Reds defeated LASK Linz 4-0 on Thursday to go to the Europa League round of 16, while Marco Silva’s team narrowly prevailed 3-2 against Wolverhampton Wanderers on Monday.

Match preview

In Thursday’s Europa League Group E match, Austrian powerhouse LASK Linz became the tenth visiting team to test their mettle on Anfield turf this season. Thomas Sageder’s team swiftly became the tenth club to leave empty-handed, as Liverpool comfortably advanced into the round of 16 with a game remaining.

After losing to Toulouse 3-2 and earning just one point, the Reds missed their chance to qualify three weeks prior. However, Liverpool secured the top spot with to goals from Cody Gakpo, Luis Diaz, and Mohamed Salah, who scored his 199th Reds goal.

As Liverpool gears up for an intense winter schedule, which begins this weekend with the first of eight games scheduled for December, Klopp understandably praised the significance of wrapping up progress early. This month, they play their final group game against Union SG, with nothing more at stake than pride.

The Reds’ match against Manchester City at the top of the table last weekend did not quite live up to the pre-game hype, but a brilliant strike from Trent Alexander-Arnold earned them a point in a 1-1 draw. However, Ruben Dias had to call a timeout after Manuel Akanji had knocked down Alisson Becker.

Liverpool now sits in third place after missing the opportunity to overtake the defending champions, Arsenal, who lead Klopp’s team by two points. Nevertheless, the Reds will host Fulham on Tuesday after winning all ten of their home games this season by a margin of at least two goals.

In Monday’s intense match against Wolverhampton Wanderers, where three spot kicks were awarded in the second half of the match, the Cottagers were also thanking their lucky stars for video assistant refereeing. The Wanderers, on the other hand, were left to lament yet another round of controversial decisions going against them. The match ended in a five-goal thriller.

Fulham’s four-game winless streak in the division came to an end when Willian, the winger for Fulham, scored twice from 12 yards, following goals from Alex Iwobi and Matheus Cunha. However, Wolves manager Gary O’Neil reeled off a list of questionable calls that the officials admitted wrongly went against his side on the evening.

The PGMOL may have offered Wolves a meaningless apology, but Fulham earned a crucial three points in their attempt to escape danger. The Cottagers are currently in 14th place in the standings, but they have a comfortable 10-point lead over Sheffield United in 18th place.

The good vibes in the Fulham camp could not last long, though, as the Cottagers have lost their previous six Premier League away games under Silva. They have now conceded in each of their last nine games in all competitions.

The lowest percentage for any team to play at least 10 away games against a single opponent is Fulham’s meagre four goals from 16 Premier League games versus Liverpool at Anfield. However, in May’s top-flight match, only a Salah penalty kick could separate the two teams.

More than the Reds’ stalemate with Man City last weekend, where both Alisson Becker and Diogo Jota tweaked leg muscles in the second half, none of Klopp’s players emerged from the victory over LASK with a new injury issue to report.

While Jota’s injury is more serious and Klopp is unsure of when the Portuguese attacker will return, Alisson will stay in the treatment room for a few more weeks, giving Caoimhin Kelleher just his sixth Premier League start for the Reds.

With Andrew Robertson (shoulder), Thiago Alcantara (hip), and Stefan Bajcetic (calf) out of the lineup for Klopp’s three long-term absences, Diaz should start for the hosts in the attack against Fulham. Salah needs one more goal to reach a fantastic 200 for the Merseyside giants.

Regarding the visitors, Silva will be happy to have the vital midfield player Joao Palhinha return to the engine room; Tom Cairney or Harrison Reed will have to make way for the Portugal international, who was suspended for the team’s victory against Wolves.

After defeating Wolves, the Cottagers also came out on top. However, Issa Diop is not likely to return from his foot injury anytime soon, and Adam Traore (thigh) and Rodrigo Muniz (knee) are also out of the running for the time being.

Ex-Liverpool winger Harry Wilson should not start against his former employers since both Iwobi and Willian are making a lot of net space. However, with Tosin Adarabioyo recovering from a groyne treatment, Silva faces a defensive conundrum.

Liverpool possible starting lineup:
Kelleher; Alexander-Arnold, Matip, Van Dijk, Tsimikas; Szoboszlai, Mac Allister, Jones; Salah, Nunez, Diaz

Fulham possible starting lineup:
Leno; Castagne, Bassey, Ream, Robinson; Palhinha, Reed; Iwobi, Pereira, Willian; Jimenez

We say: Liverpool 3-0 Fulham

When Wolves visited town on Monday, it took a few strokes of luck for Fulham to cross the finish line. However, since the Cottagers have had plenty of time to heal, it shouldn’t matter too much when they play Liverpool.

With numerous rested big-hitters making a comeback to the starting lineup and playing goals for joy in front of their own supporters, Klopp’s crop should be able to maintain their 100% home record without too many setbacks on Sunday.

December 2, 2023
Ten players could miss Man City vs. Liverpool’s Premier League match due to injuries.

An extensive summary of the injuries that Manchester City and Liverpool are dealing with before their Premier League match on Saturday

The managerial prowess of Pep Guardiola and Jurgen Klopp will be put to the test on Saturday when they try to assemble their injured squads for Liverpool’s trip to Manchester City.

Due to both teams’ history of fighting to the very last minute for championships, the meeting has always had an advantage in the modern Premier League era. This was reinforced when the Reds’ performance in the final game before the international break guaranteed they would play the league leaders in second place.

However, several of the stars from both teams will undoubtedly miss the top-of-the-table match owing to injury issues, and it might come too soon for other contenders to recover.

Liverpool

Ibrahima Konate

Injury: Hamstring

What we know: Since the 1-1 draw with Luton at the beginning of November, the centre defender has not appeared for the Reds. After taking a break in Toulouse, he missed the victory over Brentford prior to the halftime break because of his second hamstring issue in as many months.

He will miss France’s World Cup qualifying matches against Gibraltar and Greece this week as a result of this, yet national team boss Didier Deschamps stated on Monday that his absence was only preventative.

His testing came back normal, though. The coach said to the French media that “he needs some time to not take any risks.” He already has an injury in that area. Neither I nor he had any interest in getting in touch with him. He could have only been available for training on Friday, November 17, or Saturday, November 18, in the best case situation.

But like his midfield partner Jones, Gravenberch is expected to recover in time for Man City, bringing his run of missing games to an end at three.

Possible return date: November 25 vs Manchester City

Conor Bradley

Injury: Stress fracture

What we know: Just two games into the team’s summer preseason practises, 20-year-old Bradley suffered the devastating blow of a stress fracture in his back.

Due to this, he has missed the entire 2023–24 season. However, before to this month’s 3-2 Europa League loss against Toulouse, he was sighted in open training with the rest of his teammates.

Maybe LASK at Anfield, the game right after City, would be a more reasonable goal instead of a match of this level for the young Northern Irishman.

Possible return date: November 30 vs LASK

Joe Gomez

Injury: Unknown

What we know: Gomez was unexpectedly missing from the Reds’ triumph over Brentford as well.

The Englishman had terrible, chronic issues in the past, but this season he has returned to his former self, albeit largely as a left back and not in his favoured position in central defence.

Before the team’s most recent game, Klopp stated that the seriousness of the problem will need to be evaluated. Since then, there has been no update.

Date of potential return: TBC

Stefan Bajcetic

Injury: Adductor

What we know: Bajcetic, the second Spanish maestro who appears to be having trouble at this club, has also missed extended periods of time due to injury since before the 2022–2023 season concluded.

He only had two appearances as a right back so far this season in September before suffering an injury that has prevented him from playing and will, regrettably, prevent him from playing in the upcoming game.

The 19-year-old recently talked about the difficulties he had starting his career so young.

Possible return date: TBC

Thiago Alcantara

Injury: Hip

What we know: Thiago has not appeared as a substitute for Liverpool since April 26, 2023, and has not started a game for the club since February 4, 2023. This is because he underwent hip surgery and has since experienced setbacks.

He will definitely not play on Saturday since Klopp stated at the beginning of the month that the Spaniard’s realistic goal would be the New Year.

Andy Robertson

Injury: Shoulder

What we know: Robertson missed the October international break due to a dislocated shoulder, which is another issue for a Reds player that needed surgery.

Since then, he has missed seven club games; given Liverpool’s hectic holiday schedule, that figure will rise significantly. The Scottish player is unlikely to play before the New Year and will not be participating against Man City.

Despite this, he is still very positive, saying to Viaplay recently: “I’m getting there, slowly and surely.” The most important thing was that the surgery went well and there were no aftereffects.

“After three weeks of surgery, everything is going great. I just need to take things little by little, week by week. So far, so good. So far, everything has gone smoothly, and perhaps this will continue. Hopefully, I’ll be back on the grass in no time.”

Potential date of return: January 2024

2024

Manchester City

Erling Haaland

Injury: Ankle

What we know: During Norway’s most recent game against the Faroe Islands, the Premier League record setter took a knock to his ankle. The injury was evident. He was unable to attend their next match against Scotland as a result, and his nation was unable to go to the Euro 2024 finals.

Stale Solbakken, the manager of Haaland’s national team, hinted on Saturday that the player’s absence from the second game was merely a precaution, saying, “It’s not a serious injury; it’s his movement in the foot that is his problem.” If the match against Scotland had gone to overtime, I’m not sure.”

Possible return date: November 25 vs Liverpool

Rodri

Injury: Unknown

What we know: Rodri complained of discomfort, so the management of the Spanish national team decided he would not play in their first game of the break.

But in encouraging news for Guardiola’s team on Saturday, the key midfield player was able to play 86 minutes on Sunday without any new issues.

Possible return date: November 25 vs Liverpool

Ederson

Injury: Foot

What we know: City’s Brazilian goalkeeper was clearly uncomfortable throughout the second half of their most recent away Premier League game against Chelsea.

He had to withdraw from Brazil’s plans for this international break due to an impact injury to his foot. The Manchester Evening News claims that Guardiola won’t need to use Stefan Ortega, his backup choice, because Ederson will be fine.

Possible return date: November 25 vs Liverpool

Sergio Gomez

Injury: Ankle

What we know: The England international missed the first twelve games of the season due to injury, but returned for about a month before the same issue reappeared.

Guardiola indicated that the current situation is “not bad,” but he made it clear that he would not force Stones to play again before it was absolutely necessary.

Possible return date: November 25 vs Liverpool

John Stones

Injury: Hip

What we know: The England international missed the first twelve games of the season due to injury, but returned for about a month before the same issue reappeared.

Guardiola indicated that the current situation is “not bad,” but he made it clear that he would not force Stones to play again before it was absolutely necessary.

Possible return date: TBC

Mateo Kovacic

Injury: Muscular

What we know: A week and a half ago, the Croatian substituted in for Chelsea during the second half of City’s match, despite having strained a muscle. Since the international break, Kovacic has not been mentioned in any fresh updates.

Possible return date: TBC

Matheus Nunes

Injury: Fitness

What we know: “The midfielder is unfit for Portugal’s two games,” the Portuguese Football Association stated in a statement. After testing, Matheus Nunes was deemed clinically unfit for the matches against Iceland and Liechtenstein.”

The former player who was linked to Liverpool was consequently transferred back to Manchester, where he has played without any problems since joining in the summer.

Possible return date: TBC

Nathan Ake

Injury: Unknown

What we know: During the few days between City’s Champions League encounter against Young Boys and their pre-intermission match versus Chelsea, the Dutchman developed an issue during training. He was compelled to leave his foreign assignment as a result, and no fresh information has been released.

Possible return date: TBC

Kevin de Bruyne

Injury: Hamstring

What is certain is that Man City will spare Jurgen Klopp’s team from facing the talisman, Kevin de Bruyne, this coming weekend.

Since hurting his hamstring on the first day of the season, the midfield player has been out. Guardiola is unlikely to risk the 32-year-old, therefore a comeback before the New Year is anticipated.

Possible return date: January 2024

November 22, 2023