Liverpool head into their final match of 2024 at the London Stadium against West Ham United, aiming to strengthen their position at the Premier League summit. Both teams are on the back of positive results from their Boxing Day fixtures, promising an intense clash on Sunday evening.
Liverpool’s Recent Form
Liverpool's relentless march continues under Arne Slot, extending their unbeaten away record in the 2024-25 season. A 3-1 comeback victory against Leicester highlighted their resilience and attacking prowess, with goals from Curtis Jones, Mohamed Salah, and Cody Gakpo. Currently unbeaten in 11 of their last 13 games across all competitions, the Reds have looked increasingly formidable.
However, defensive lapses have been a concern, as seen in their last four Premier League away games, where they conceded at least twice. Nevertheless, with an eight-point gap at the top, Liverpool remain favourites to end the year on a high.
West Ham’s Recent Form
Julen Lopetegui's West Ham have shown marked improvement in recent weeks. A hard-fought 1-0 win over Southampton was their fourth Premier League game without defeat, lifting them to 13th in the standings.
Having scored in their last seven league outings, the Hammers have developed a knack for finding the net, which could test Liverpool’s defence.
However, consistency remains a challenge. Their form at the London Stadium has been better, but facing the league leaders will require them to elevate their game.
Injury and Team News
Liverpool
Out: Ibrahima Konaté (knee), Conor Bradley (hamstring), and Dominik Szoboszlai (suspension).
Key Updates: Curtis Jones is set to start in Szoboszlai’s absence, while Diogo Jota and Luis Díaz are likely to replace Darwin Núñez, who struggled in the last outing.
West Ham
Out: Lukasz Fabianski (concussion protocol), Max Kilman (shoulder), Michail Antonio (road accident injuries), and midfield duo Tomas Soucek and Guido Rodríguez (suspensions).
Returning: Lucas Paquetá is back from suspension and expected to play a crucial role in midfield alongside Edson Álvarez.
Last Lineups
Liverpool (vs Leicester City, Boxing Day)
West Ham (vs Southampton, Boxing Day)
Referee and VAR
Referee: Anthony Taylor.
Assistants: Gary Beswick, Adam Nunn.
Fourth official: Steven Martin.
VAR: Darren England.
Assistant VAR: Simon Bennett.
Player to Watch
Liverpool: Mohamed Salah
The Egyptian star is in scintillating form, reaching a new milestone of 100 Premier League home goals.
His pace, creativity, and goal-scoring instincts will be vital against a depleted West Ham defence.
West Ham: Jarrod Bowen
Bowen has been West Ham’s most consistent attacker, capable of unsettling any defence with his direct runs and finishing. Liverpool’s defensive frailties provide an opportunity for him to shine.
Prediction
Liverpool’s attacking depth, combined with West Ham’s midfield crisis, points towards a Reds victory. While the Hammers may exploit Liverpool's occasional defensive lapses, the visitors' superior firepower should see them through.
Our Prediction: West Ham 1-3 Liverpool
Betting Tips
Tip 1 - Over 2.5 goals: Both teams have shown a propensity to score but struggle defensively, making this a high-scoring fixture likely.
Tip 2 - Mohamed Salah to score anytime: The forward’s red-hot form and West Ham's defensive issues make this a solid bet.
Tip 3 - Liverpool to win with a -1 handicap: Given the gulf in quality and West Ham's injuries, Liverpool could secure a comfortable margin of victory.
