Liverpool and Chelsea are set to clash at Anfield this Sunday in what looks like it might be the Premier League's most exciting match of the weekend.
Liverpool, currently sitting at the top of the table, come into this game with a solid winning streak, while Chelsea have also shown attacking flair in recent weeks.
Liverpool Recent Form
Liverpool have been in sensational form under new manager Arne Slot, winning eight of their last nine matches. A narrow 1-0 win over Crystal Palace before the international break secured their position at the top of the table. Defensively solid, Liverpool have only conceded two goals in the Premier League so far this season.
Injury and team news
Liverpool will be without key goalkeeper Alisson Becker, who is sidelined with a long-term injury. Caoimhin Kelleher is expected to replace him in goal. The Reds will also miss Harvey Elliott and Federico Chiesa, but Mohamed Salah is back early from international duty, bolstering the attack.
Last Liverpool Lineup
Here is how Liverpool lined up in their last match against Crystal Palace:
Chelsea Recent Form
Chelsea have been impressive, sitting in fourth place, with their last match ending in a 1-1 draw against Nottingham Forest. They boast the second-best attacking record in the league, scoring 16 goals this season, just one behind Manchester City.
However, Chelsea have struggled against Liverpool in recent encounters, going winless in their last nine meetings.
Injury and team news
Chelsea will be without Wesley Fofana and Marc Cucurella, both suspended after picking up their fifth yellow cards.
Reece James returns from injury, which is a boost for their defensive options, while Axel Disasi and Renato Veiga are expected to deputise in defence.
Last Chelsea Lineup
Here is how Chelsea lined up in their last match against Nottingham Forest:
Liverpool vs Chelsea - who is the referee and VAR?
Here are the confirmed on-field referees and VAR officials for the game:
Referee: John Brooks.
Assistants: Simon Bennett, Darren Cann.
Fourth official: Craig Pawson.
VAR: Michael Oliver. Assistant VAR: Stuart Burt.
Liverpool Player To Watch
Mohamed Salah will be Liverpool’s key man. The Egyptian star is well-rested and will be eager to add to his tally this season. His pace and clinical finishing will be crucial in breaking down Chelsea’s weakened defence.
Chelsea Player To Watch
Cole Palmer has been a standout performer for Chelsea and was recently named Player of the Month. His creativity and eye for goal will be central to Chelsea’s hopes of getting a result at Anfield.
Prediction
With Liverpool in strong form and Chelsea missing key defenders, Liverpool are slight favourites for this match. We expect a tight encounter, but the Reds’ defensive stability might be enough to edge out the Blues.
Our Prediction: Liverpool 2-1 Chelsea.
Betting Tips
Tip 1
Liverpool to win: Given their form and Chelsea’s defensive absentees, a Liverpool victory looks likely.
Tip 2
Both teams to score: Chelsea’s attacking quality, coupled with Liverpool’s slightly weakened backline without Alisson, suggests both teams will find the net.
Tip 3
Under 3.5 goals: Despite the attacking talent on display, this could be a cagey affair, with neither side likely to run away with the game.
