The Reds and The Blues are involved in a race for Champions League spot. They are both sitting on the fifth and sixth respectively with only one point difference. This will also be the encounter of two former Borussia Dortmund boss, Jurgen Klopp and Thomas Tuchel. It is definitely one mouth watering clash this week.
Both teams’ previous games
Liverpool finally ended their winless run in Premier League after smashing Sheffield United 2-0 last weekend. The winning goals, however, were scored by Curtis Jones and Kean Bryan’s own goal. They could have scored more if their forward had been more clinical in the six yard box.
Chelsea, on the other hand, could only muster a goalless draw against Manchester United last weekend. The Blues’s defensive stance plus Eduard Mendy’s top form could avoid them from conceding. Yet, their attacking lines are still disappointing and they missed several chances.
Possible tactics
Jurgen Klopp is in need of brushing up their forwards who wasted a number of golden opportunities in the previous outing. The German boss could try 4-4-2 instead, as Southampton, which managed to put Chelsea in difficulty a few weeks ago, normally deploys. Sadio Mane and Mo Salah are upfront with Alex Oxlade Chamberlain and Xerdan Shaqiri on both flanks. In the middle, Thiago and Curtis Jones can be the anchor and the first layer of their defense. A number of key figures are still ruled out here such as Virgil Van Dijk, Joe Gomez, Jordan Henderson, Diogo Jota, James Milner, Joel Matip and Caoimhin Kelleher.
Thomas Tuchel has always been in favour of 3-4-2-1 formation with the transition to 3-4-1-2 if necessary to intensify the attacking threat. Timo Werner and Tammy Abraham could occupy the targetmen role, supported by Mason Mount from behind. In the midfield, Recce James and Marcus Alonso will be operating on both flanks while Matteo Kovacic and NGolo Kante are in the middle. The only names ruled out for this fixture are the former PSG man, Thiago Silva and Callum Hudson Odoi.
Players to watch
The Egyptian Mo Salah is still Liverpool’s top scorer with 17 goals plus providing 3 assists in Premier League. Another key man to watch is the wingback Trent Alexander Arnold who has registered one goal and five assists in EPL and UCL so far.
The Blues’ top performers this season is Mason Mount. The 22-year old attacking midfielder has bagged four goals and four assists in Premier League and Champions League. Another notable name to watch is the German defender, Antonio Rudiger.
Liverpool vs Chelsea Prediction
Jurgen Klopp’s men need to be careful with Chelsea’s tactical approach which could expose their defensive frailties, especially if Fabinho has to be sidelined. Thomas Tuchel’s side has the swift Timo Werner who could bring real threat in the Reds’ defence. Alisson and Co are likely to share spoils here.
Betting Odds
This is bound to be an even match The home side’s odds to win are at 15/11, whereas Cesar Azpilicueta and Co are projected to win at 11/5. The odds for the draw result are at 27/10.
