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Jota and Nunez at the double; Bournemouth 0–4 Liverpool.
Liverpool brilliantly defeated Bournemouth with a strong second half performance, overcoming more unsatisfactory decisions from the referee.

Goals

Nunez 49′ (assist: Jota)
Jota 70′ (assist: Gakpo)
Jota 79′ (assist: Bradley)
Nunez 90+3′ (assist: Gomez)

Liverpool made their way back to play on the south coast after going ten days without a match and twenty days without a league match.

The weather in Bournemouth at kickoff was similar to that of the League Cup match earlier in the season: stormy, with wind gusts reaching 50 mph.

Despite being the stronger team in the first half, Liverpool was unable to generate any clear-cut opportunities and most of their long-range shots were not very dangerous.

Three players stood out in particular: Conor Bradley, who made his Premier League debut and became the first Northern Irishman to play for the team in the Premier League, Ibrahima Konate, and Alexis Mac Allister.

The main topic of discussion at halftime, however, was the fact that Justin Kluivert’s challenge on Luis Diaz received no penalty at all. It was an almost identical challenge to the one Curtis Jones received a red card for against Tottenham.

The referee wasn’t even advised to look by Paul Tierney on VAR. More inconsistent officiating in the Premier League.

Half time: Bournemouth 0-0 Liverpool
- LFC superb in second half
- Bradley makes PL debut
- Owen Beck PL debut from bench
- Nunez & Jota doubles
Early in the first half, Nunez and Jota combined to open the score. Jota’s exquisite first-time pass found Nunez, who rolled it past the goalie to score his second goal in 16 games.

Jota was fouled by a player and shoved by another, and Liverpool should have been awarded a penalty shortly after. However, neither the referee nor VAR awarded any points.

After a difficult first half, Jota showed great improvement, setting up the second goal with a great assist from Nunez and Gakpo.

Liverpool deserved Jota’s crisp finish at the near post following a much better second half.

With ten minutes left, the Portuguese striker added a second goal, a brilliant finish by Jota following an early miskick that had the home crowd laughing instead of cheering.

Curtis Jones, who looked to be suffering from a hamstring problem, was replaced by 18-year-old midfielder Bobby Clark, while Jurgen Klopp started Owen Beck in his Premier League debut off the bench.

In stoppage time, Nunez scored his second goal with a beautiful finish off of Gomez’s cross.

With a game remaining, the Reds are atop the standings, five points ahead of Man City.

The focus now shifts to domestic cup competitions, with Norwich competing in the FA Cup on Sunday and Fulham in the League Cup on Wednesday.

Man of the Match: Diogo Jota

Referee: Andy Madley

Bournemouth: Neto; Aarons, Zabarnyi, Mepham, Hill; Christie, Cook; Sinisterra, Kluivert, Tavernier; Solanke

Subs: Travers, Kelly, Scott, Billing, Kilkenny, Marcondes, Brooks, Moore Greenwood

Liverpool: Alexis Mac Allister; Bradley (Beck 83′), Konate, Van Dijk, Gomez; Alisson, Elliott (Gravenberch 64′), Jones (Clark 83′); Diaz (Gakpo 64′), Nunez, Jota (Gordon 90+4′)

Subs not used: Kelleher, Adrian, Quansah, McConnell

Next Game: Fulham, League Cup (away, Wednesday, January 24)

Previous news……

Fans of Liverpool are given a comforting transfer update by Fabrizio Romano.

Although Al Ettifaq of the Saudi Pro League has been linked to Liverpool defender Joe Gomez, Fabrizio Romano seems to think the Reds don’t want to let go of him.

Gomez was one of several names brought up by Al Ettifaq and their manager Steven Gerrard in a recent meeting, along with fellow Liverpool defender Joel Matip, as Ben Jacobs had previously reported on CaughtOffside.

Romano has since updated CaughtOffside exclusively in his Daily Briefing column, stating that Liverpool’s position is that Gomez is not for sale and that the 26-year-old is expected to remain at Anfield.

Even if he won’t be leaving LFC this month, Matip might be someone to monitor for the finish of the season, according to Romano.

Romano wrote, “Despite talk of a possible move to Al Ettifaq, Joel Matip won’t leave Liverpool now,” in reference to these players in his most recent piece. It might be different in the summer, and he might be drawn to Saudi attention. Additionally, I don’t see Joe Gomez going; he’s staying.

Matip has served Liverpool well, but after the end of the current campaign, it may be time for him to go on. Gomez, on the other hand, is undoubtedly still a valued member of Jurgen Klopp’s squad.
January 21, 2024
Liverpool’s expected starting lineup against Bournemouth: A £212 million trio returns to the starting lineup with three significant changes.

The most recent injury updates, team news, and expected starting lineup for Liverpool’s away match against Bournemouth, a Premier League foe.

When Liverpool plays Bournemouth on Sunday afternoon, they’ll be trying to hold onto their lead atop the Premier League standings. The Reds haven’t dropped a game in the top flight since September 28 and are presently two points ahead of Manchester City in second place.

On New Year’s Day, they triumphed over Newcastle United in an exciting match at Anfield in their most recent Premier League game. Since then, wins over Arsenal in the FA Cup third round and Fulham in the Carabao Cup semi-final first leg have kept Jurgen Klopp’s team’s dreams of a domestic treble alive.

For their side, Bournemouth lost 3-1 to Tottenham Hotspur in their most recent Premier League game, snapping an unbeaten streak of seven games. With games remaining for many of the teams below them, their unexpected run of success has significantly improved their league standing, propelling them to 12th in the standings and creating a nine-point cushion in the relegation zone.

But this weekend, how will both teams line up on the south coast? Below, we’ve examined each team’s injury report and projected starting lineups.

Liverpool Team News

When Liverpool travels to the Vitality Stadium this weekend, they will be missing a number of first team players. Andy Robertson and Trent Alexander-Arnold, the first-choice full-backs, will both be absent since the former is still recovering from a significant shoulder injury and the later is dealing with a persistent knee issue. “Trent hyper-extended his knee during the last game,” Klopp remarked following the victory over Arsenal earlier this month. He will therefore require time to heal from a little tear in his knee’s lateral ligament. After a few weeks off following a scan, let’s see what happens.

It is anticipated that midfield players Thiago Alcantara and Stefan Bajcetic will return around the end of February, while Kostas Tsimikas may return closer to the start of February following a shoulder injury. While Mo Salah and Wataru Endo are away on international service for Egypt and Japan at the African Cup of Nations and Asian Cup, respectively, Joel Matip has torn his ACL and is very unlikely to play again this season.

Better news, though, might be on the horizon for Dominik Szoboszlai, as his boss has hinted that the midfield player is getting close to playing again. In a statement earlier this month, Klopp stated: “Let’s see, Dom is progressing well on the pitch; he’s running.”

Liverpool Predicted XI

Alisson Becker; Conor Bradley, Ibrahima Konate, Virgil van Dijk, Joe Gomez; Dominik Szoboszlai, Alexis Mac Allister, Curtis Jones; Diogo Jota, Darwin Nunez, Luis Diaz.

Bournemouth Team News

Bournemouth, for their part, will also be missing a handful of players this Sunday. While players like Darren Randolph and Ryan Fredericks have no set recovery date, midfield duo Tyler Adams and Hamed Traore are expected to be sidelined for several weeks.

Lloyd Kelly and Marcos Senesi, who is suspended after receiving too many yellow cards, will be missing from the defence. On the other hand, Milos Kerkez might soon be returning from an ankle ailment. Both Antoine Semenyo and Dango Ouattara are away at the African Cup of Nations.

Bournemouth Predicted XI

Neto; Adam Smith, Illia Zabarnyi, Chris Mepham, Milos Kerkez; Ryan Christie, Lewis Cook; Marcus Tavernier, Justin Kluivert, Luis Sinisterra; Dominic Solanke.

January 19, 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
LIVERPOOL XI TO FACE NEWCASTLE AS PREDICTED AND TEAM NEWS

Boxing Day 2023 saw Liverpool defeated Burnley, and going into the New Year, they hope to maintain their winning ways in the hunt for the title race.

Newcastle visits Anfield on January 1, 2024, and Eddie Howe’s team has one of the more favourable schedules the Reds could ask for—at least on paper.

The Magpies are in terrible shape as they have dropped eight of their last 12 games across all competitions, most recently a 3-1 loss to Nottingham Forest.

Their season has been disrupted thus far by an injury problem, and Howe may be missing as many as nine regular first-team players for the encounter on January 1.

Furthermore, Liverpool has won five straight games against Newcastle and hasn’t dropped a Premier League home game against the Magpies since 1994.

Howe has also been dominated by Jurgen Klopp in their most recent encounters. When Klopp’s team defeated another elite manager 2-1 in August, driven by Darwin Nuñez, he made history by becoming the first Premier League manager to win 11 games in a row.

This is how Klopp might arrange his team on Monday.

Goalkeeper and Defence

For the first time since October, Alisson Becker will look to begin the New Year with back-to-back Premier League clean sheets.

Captain Virgil van Dijk, who was sent off in the rematch against Newcastle back in August, will be in front of him. Ibrahima Konate, who missed the Boxing Day victory over Burnley, ought to be paired with the captain, with young Jarell Quansah receiving greater playing time.

Due to injuries to Andy Robertson and Kostas Tsimikas, Joe Gomez is the clear choice for left back. Trent Alexander-Arnold will continue to play in his hybrid role on the right.

Luke Chambers and Calum Scanlon, two young players who made their Europa League debuts this season, may sit out this game.

Midfield

Before leaving for the Asian Cup, Wataru Endo is probably going to play his final game as the foundation of the Reds’ midfield.

The Japan captain had a slow start, but he is already clicking. Playing five games in 13 days, Endo became the first Liverpool player in eighteen years when he was named on the team sheet for the victory over Burnley on Boxing Day.

Dominik Szoboszlai and Curtis Jones are preferred, thus Harvey Elliott and Ryan Gravenberch—who both started at Turf Moor—may be benched once more for Newcastle’s visit.

Given that Klopp is fully aware of the Argentine’s importance to the team during Endo’s absence in January, Alexis Mac Allister is not likely to make a quick recovery from his injury.

Attack

For Liverpool supporters who have been missing the Portuguese striker’s finishing prowess in recent weeks, Diogo Jota’s goalscoring cameo against Burnley was a welcome sight.

He might be given a starting role against Newcastle, along with Darwin Nuñez, the other Boxing Day goal scorer who broke a 12-game Liverpool goal drought.

The Uruguayan turned the tide of the match against Newcastle back in August when he scored twice in the 2-1 triumph after coming off the bench.

Mohamed Salah, who has 12 goal involvements (six goals, six assists) in 14 prior Premier League games versus Newcastle, will start on the right.

PREDICTED STARTING XI TO FACE NEWCASTLE:

(4-3-3): Allison; Alexander-Arnold, Konate, Van Dijk, Gomez; Szoboszlai, Endo, Jones; Salah, Nuñez, Jota

December 29, 2023
Premier League matchup between Burnley and Liverpool: lineups, team news, and prediction
Victory over Fulham boosts morale for Vincent Kompany’s team.

Following a thrilling draw with leaders Arsenal, Liverpool is now ranked second in the Premier League rankings.

The scene as Jurgen Klopp’s team attempts to briefly seize the lead is Turf Moor.

Following a few days off for the Christmas holiday, Liverpool returns to action on Boxing Day as they visit Burnley.

On Saturday night, the Reds and Arsenal played out an enthralling 1-1 draw at Anfield, with Mohamed Salah giving Jurgen Klopp’s team a point following Gabriel’s early opener.

Liverpool is a strong favourite to defeat struggling Burnley, but they won’t take lightly on their home pitch, especially considering that they just came from a crucial 2-0 victory against Fulham.

Burnley vs Liverpool H2H Record (Last Five Games)
- Burnley: 1 win
- Liverpool: 3 wins
- Draws: 1
- Last meeting: Burnley 0-1 Liverpool (13 February 2022) – Premier League
Burnley team news

Following their victory at Craven Cottage, Burnley has no new injury concerns, and Vincent Kompany may choose to start with the same lineup.

Due to a knee injury, Luca Koleosho will be out for several weeks; however, Aaron Ramsey, Jack Cork, and Johann Berg Gudmundsson are getting close to being healthy. Jay Rodriguez might be the front-runner over Lyle Foster, who just got back.

Burnley predicted lineup vs Liverpool

Burnley predicted lineup (4-4-2): Trafford; Da Silva, O’Shea, Beyer, Taylor; Bruun Larsen, Berge, Brownhill, Odobert, Rodriguez, Amdouni

Liverpool team news

Liverpool, which was already without several important players, suffered more injury setbacks against Arsenal.

After running into his manager on the touchline, Kostas Tsimikas shattered his collarbone, according to Klopp, and Luis Diaz’s availability is in question due to a knee clash with Bukayo Saka.

Long-term absentees Joel Matip and Andrew Robertson are being replaced by Diogo Jota, Alexis Mac Allister, Thiago, and Stefan Bajcetic.

Liverpool predicted lineup vs Burnley

Liverpool predicted lineup (4-3-3): Alisson; Alexander-Arnold, Quansah, Van Dijk, Gomez; Szoboszlai, Endo, Gravenberch; Salah, Gakpo, Nunez

Score prediction for Burnley vs. Liverpool

Liverpool should fire at Turf Moor since they have the opportunity to take the lead in the table.

Even if they have lost just once in nine games on the road, the Reds are still formidable despite the injuries to important players. With eight losses in nine games played in front of their own fans, Burnley has the worst home record in the Premier League.

The Clarets would seem to lack the firepower to seriously affect Liverpool, and if Liverpool’s players bring the kind of shooting form they had in their crushing of West Ham in the Carabao Cup quarterfinal, they may also give up a few goals.

Prediction: Burnley 1-3 Liverpool

More news……

Liverpool transfer target may be hijack by PSG as agreement is close

According to one source, Paris Saint-Germain are nearing an agreement for Lucas Beraldo Liverpool target.

As Jurgen Klopp deals with escalating injury concerns, the 20-year-old defender has been mentioned as a potential target for the Reds prior to the transfer window reopening next month.

Liverpool has previously committed to adding one or more defensive players by 2024. But Joel Matip’s season-ending injury has only made the need for additional back-end players more pressing.

Prior to January, the Reds were linked to several centre backs. They were even tipped as the front-runners for Sao Paulo’s impressive South American centre back, Beraldo.

Santi Aouna claims that PSG will actually finalise a winter contract for the Brazil youth international.

The journalist from Foot Mercato stated on X: “PSG is optimistic that Lucas Beraldo’s arrival will be completed in exchange for a 20+5M Euro bonus. close coordination between the parties. Potentially scheduled for next week’s medical examination.”

According to Aouna, PSG is reportedly in advanced talks with Corinthians to sign 18-year-old midfielder Gabriel Moscardo, who has also been tangentially connected to Liverpool in recent weeks.

Although Beraldo may no longer be an option, it is unclear if Liverpool will make any additions the following month.

The likelihood of Liverpool bringing in a replacement for the injured Matip has been downplayed by manager Jurgen Klopp in public. And yet another story says the Reds are willing to negotiate ‘if the price is right’.

In addition to Piero Hincapie of Leverkusen and Leny Yoro of Lille, Goncalo Inacio of Sporting CP is another centre back who has frequently been mentioned as a possible target.

Anfield Watch is aware that the Reds’ top objective for 2024 will be to strengthen their defence, even though a high-profile addition is probably more likely to come in the summer.

Despite Klopp’s remarks, Liverpool has experience signing players in January, having done so with Luis Diaz and Cody Gakpo in the last two years.
December 24, 2023
5 talking points from Liverpool and Arsenal’s frenetic draw as title rivals are left unsatisfied

LIVERPOOL 1-1 ARSENAL: In just the fourth minute at Anfield, Gabriel’s early header gave the Gunners the lead, and in a thrilling match, Mo Salah equalised.

Both Liverpool and Arsenal battled off a frantic draw at Anfield, failing to deliver a championship punch to the other.

Just before the half hour mark, Mo Salah beat Oleksandr Zinchenko and blasted in at David Raya’s near post to tie the score, giving the Gunners an early lead thanks to defender Gabriel’s header of captain Martin Odegaard’s free kick. However, Liverpool rallied and were denied a penalty when Odegaard appeared to handle the ball.

Trent Alexander-Arnold crashed against the crossbar for Liverpool after a quick break, but neither team could pull off a victory in a game that was close the entire time.

These are the primary talking points of the game.

1. Arsenal’s prize for a smart start

Given some of their previous experiences here, Arsenal is wary of this fixture. Mikel Arteta was once a member of a Gunners team that lost 5-1 after giving up four goals in the first twenty minutes of play. While it’s common to discuss the need for a “quick start” in these types of matches, a wise start is perhaps more crucial.

Arsenal also played shrewdly in this situation, focusing on Liverpool’s creative players and limiting their ability to find a pass. They punished a Reds team that had been guilty of careless marking after stifling their hosts and forcing early set pieces. It took only four minutes for Gabriel to score, but it seemed inevitable.

2. Salah helps Liverpool find their way home.

Liverpool was naturally shocked by the score, but they are a talented enough squad to fight their way back into any game, especially with the support of a boisterous Anfield crowd that had been listening to Jurgen Klopp’s appeal for atmosphere.

The match had a fast-paced, razor-edge feel to it, but Salah is more composed under pressure and he knew he was winning against Zinchenko. The Egyptian was sent off by Alexander-Arnold’s ball, and as he cut inside, there could only be one result: he dragged back that infamous left foot. Equilibrium.

3. Everyone feels the pace… even Jurgen Klopp

The entire game was played at an astonishingly rapid speed, but it picked up even more following Salah’s score. Last-ditch interceptions were frequently required to stop either side from making fast breaks, and Arsenal’s wide players in particular looked quite dangerous.

In the end, Bukayo Saka proved to be too hazardous for both Klopp and Kostas Tsimikas, sending the Greek into his manager on the touchline while the latter appeared to have suffered yet another shoulder injury typical of a Liverpool left-back. It served as a warning about the stakes in this Premier League title match, which both players will believe they can win.

The game moved at a very quick pace, which may have contributed to the strange decision to ignore Odegaard’s apparent ball handling in the Arsenal penalty area while his team was ahead 1-0. The absence of a VAR intervention seems increasingly strange the more times it is seen.

4. A masterclass in modern defence

These days, playing centre back for a top-tier football team is a lot of work. The days of stoppers and yard dogs are long gone, to be replaced with the requirement to be a physically fit specimen.

That’s exactly what Ibrahima Konate is. The young Frenchman, who hasn’t exactly played at his greatest level this season, was excellent here as a last line of defence for multiple Arsenal advances, frequently nicking the ball away from a Gunner at the crucial moment. Gabriel was spectacular for the guests as well, showcasing some really cutting-edge defending.

5. A point made by both sides

Who then stands to gain the most from this draw? Actually, it’s probably Manchester City. Naturally, Arsenal has the better of the two teams involved; Liverpool will likely be especially upset about Alexander-Arnold’s missed opportunity.

Though they will certainly have regrets, Arsenal also established a strong lead in the latter moments of the game. All in all, though, it was a showcase for two teams that will be together for the length of this season, regardless of what happens with City. There is a lot of competition.

December 24, 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
Liverpool vs Manchester United predicted line-ups and team news

News on the Liverpool vs. Manchester United squad and the probable lineups: Elliott is given the opportunity, Rashford enters, but neither Fernandes nor Maguire are present.

When Liverpool and Manchester United meet this weekend at Anfield, the Reds will be itching to provide more suffering to their longtime rivals.

While United has dropped three of its previous four games across all competitions, Jurgen Klopp’s team has gone on a nine-game winning streak in the Premier League, which has seen them top the standings.

Liverpool is entering this match in excellent form after defeating Erik ten Hag’s team seven goals in their previous meeting in April.

After their most recent game, a late 2-1 comeback victory over Crystal Palace, the Reds surpassed Arsenal at the top of the table.

United has conceded three goals in a row at home against Bournemouth, dropping them ten points behind their competitors in sixth place.

The Old Trafford team’s suffering increased when they lost to Bayern Munich 1-0 in midweek, sending them out of the Champions League.

Liverpool

Prior to the match on Sunday, Liverpool will play Union Saint-Gilloise in Europe.

Virgil van Dijk, Trent Alexander-Arnold, Mohamed Salah, Alisson, and the team have already qualified for the Europa League knockout rounds, so they can all anticipate resting.

When Liverpool plays United on Sunday, those quartet will line up in defence, with Ibrahima Konate alongside Van Dijk.

While Klopp must make a choice on the right, Kostas Tsimikas will continue to fill in for the injured Andy Robertson at left back.

At Selhurst Park, the German pulled Wataru Endo at halftime, and he might start Joe Gomez at right back to force Alexander-Arnold into midfield.

But given Alexis Mac Allister’s ongoing knee injury problems, the Japanese midfielder is probably going to start in the No. 6 position.

Dominik Szoboszlai, who has started every Premier League game this season, fits in perfectly at one of the other three midfield positions.

Usually positioned on the right, the Hungarian may now move to the left to make room for Harvey Elliott due to Ryan Gravenberch’s recent setbacks.

Elliott was limited to a substitute duty in the Premier League this season despite starting Liverpool’s 7-0 victory over United.

The England prospect was benched during halftime of his only Premier League start to date, a 2-2 draw away at Brighton.

But in his most recent brilliant cameo, he came off the bench to score the game-winning goal against Palace, and he might now be rewarded with a start.

If Mac Allister is unable to participate, Curtis Jones is still a viable possibility to fill the left-sided midfield position.

Although Cody Gakpo will be trying to break through the three-pronged attack, it is anticipated that Darwin Nunez and Luis Diaz will once again be flanking Salah.

Last Saturday, Salah scored his 200th goal for Liverpool. Against United, he will want to build on his stellar performance.

Manchester United

Prior to the journey to Anfield, Ten Hag needs to resolve a number of concerns, the most important of which is who will captain his team.

initial preference Due to suspension, Bruno Fernandes will miss the game after receiving his fifth yellow card of the year during the miserable 3-0 loss to the Cherries.

In his absence, Luke Shaw, his England colleague, or his predecessor Harry Maguire would have been the obvious choices to assume the armband.

But due to injury, both defenders had to leave the match against Bayern in the middle of the week, and it doesn’t appear like they will play on Merseyside.

Ten Hag will be forced to play as a makeshift backline in their absence, with Aaron Wan-Bissaka starting on the right and Diogo Dalot playing an unfavourable role at left back.

Against the second-highest scorers in the league, United will be hoping that Victor Lindelof, who has missed the last two games, is well enough to play, or that 35-year-old Jonny Evans will play alongside Raphael Varane.

As United’s best scorer in the Premier League this year, Scott McTominay might be able to play in a more advanced role now that Fernandes is out of Ten Hag’s double pivot.

With Sofyan Amrabat as his teammate, young player Kobbie Mainoo—who hasn’t played much since his stunning showing against Everton—might get another chance to shine.

Because of Anthony Martial’s health issues, Rasmus Hojlund will likely start again as he attempts to score his first Premier League goal.

In a similar vein, Antony will start on the right, as Jadon Sancho, who has just once assisted and no goals in his last 25 games, continues to be left out.

In an attempt to salvage his struggling season, Marcus Rashford has similarly battled with form and fitness.

After playing indifferently in Man United’s 1-0 loss to Newcastle last week, Rashford was left off of the starting lineup for the team’s 2-1 victory over Chelsea.

He was only able to make a late appearance against Bournemouth due to illness, which has now caused him to miss the Bayern defeat.

Despite his current form, Rashford will probably replace Alejandro Garnacho in his preferred left-wing position should he be deemed fit because of United’s lack of senior experience.

Suspensions and injuries have devastated Ten Hag’s team.

December 14, 2023
Liverpool team news: suspension list, and injury vs. Crystal Palace

When Liverpool plays Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park on Saturday lunchtime, they have the opportunity to shoot up to the top of the Premier League table—at least for a few hours.

Virgil van Dijk and Dominik Szoboszlai provided the game-winning strikes as the Reds defeated Sheffield United 2-0 on Wednesday to extend their winning streak to three games across all competitions.

After the midweek round of games, Jurgen Klopp’s team is only two points behind Arsenal. Since the Gunners don’t play until 3 p.m. on Saturday, a Liverpool victory over Palace would allow them to briefly hold the top spot.

Sports Mole compiles the most recent injury and suspension updates for Liverpool prior to their matchup with the Eagles, who were defeated 2-0 by Bournemouth on Wednesday night.

Alexis Mac Allister

Status: Major doubt
Type of injury: Knee
Possible return date: December 9 (vs. Palace)

In the opening half of Wednesday’s match, Alexis Mac Allister took a blow to the knee and eventually had to be substituted just before the hour. It is unlikely that the midfield player will be declared fit for the match at Selhurst Park after Klopp disclosed that the player needed stitches for his wound.

Joel Matip

Status: Out
Type of injury: Knee
Possible return date: Unknown

In the exciting 4-3 victory against Fulham last weekend, Joel Matip tore his ACL completely. The Cameroonian defender is anticipated to miss the remainder of the season due to injury, which might mean a harsh end to his career with the Reds before his contract expires in the summer.

Alisson Becker

Status: Out
Type of injury: Thigh
Possible return date: December 14 (vs. Union SG)

As he recovers from a thigh injury, Alisson Becker ought to be the first person out of the Liverpool hospital, but he won’t be prepared to play against the Eagles.

Diogo Jota

Status: Out
Type of injury: Muscular
Possible return date: December 26 (vs. Burnley)

Diogo Jota, like Alisson, had to leave the game against Manchester City last month due to a muscular issue. Unlike his goalie, Jota’s injury won’t go away right away, so he might play again before the year is up.

Andrew Robertson

Status: Out
Type of injury: Shoulder
Possible return date: January 1 (vs. Newcastle United)

Although Andrew Robertson is steadily recovering from surgery to mend a dislocated shoulder two months ago, the New Year is still thought to be his most likely return date.

Thiago Alcantara

Status: Out
Type of injury: Hip
Possible return date: January 1 (vs. Newcastle United)

Due to a hip injury, Thiago Alcantara hasn’t been spotted in a Liverpool uniform since April. The Spanish midfielder has also experienced two setbacks, meaning he won’t be back until at least January.

Stefan Bajcetic

Status: Out
Type of injury: Calf
Possible return date: Unknown

Before being sidelined once more due to a calf issue, Stefan Bajcetic fully healed from an adductor injury. There is presently no word on when the teenager would return to action.

More news……

Liverpool and two other Premier League rivals are vying for the 25-year-old South American’s signature.

Douglas Luiz, a midfielder for Aston Villa, has been connected to a departure from the team in recent months.

According to a report from 90 Min, Liverpool has now entered the competition for the 25-year-old Brazilian midfielder, who is reportedly being watched by many Premier League clubs.

It seems that Liverpool has expressed interest in signing the player should he decide to leave Aston Villa. Liverpool could use more players like the 25-year-old, who has established himself as one of the Premier League’s most dependable midfielders.

Alexis Mac Allister has had to fill in as their defensive midfielder this season because they were unable to buy a quality player during the summer transfer window. The Argentine international is better suited as a number eight, and Mac Allister will be able to play for his country now that Luiz has arrived.

Luiz could finish off Jurgen Klopp’s midfield group for the foreseeable future and would be a great fit for the Liverpool midfield.

The athlete has also been connected to Manchester City and Arsenal.

The player may find the chance to play for a major club appealing, but it appears that the West Midlands club is unwilling to allow him go in January. This season, Aston Villa has been very strong, and they are trying to qualify for the Champions League. It is unclear if Liverpool will want to make a test offer in January, but they won’t want to deplete the team anytime soon

December 8, 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