Liverpool v Leeds – Match Preview

Liverpool turn their attention back to the Premier League where they welcome Leeds United to Anfield this evening. The Reds will aim to wipe that perplexing defeat on the banks of the River Trent from their memory and benefit from Leeds’ poor run of form.

Overview

Liverpool are in eighth place, just five points off fourth place. A victory over their opponents would close the gap on the teams above them. In midweek, The Reds were boosted by the return of Darwin Nunez who got the nod to the starting eleven and repaid by hitting home. As it stands, Liverpool have won twice in their recent three games in L4.

As for Leeds, fans from Elland Road have been frustrated with the way their players perform this season. They sit in the relegation zone. So far, they’ve played six away games, registered four defeats and a draw. That being said, Jesse Marsch is under pressure. After a harsh defeat to Fulham at home soil, Marsch could hear the chants of Marcelo Bielsa resonate around the stadia.

Head to Head

Jurgen Klopp’s side go into the game as favourites, as they have found themselves on the winning end in an overwhelming majority of fixtures against the Whites.

The last five meetings between these two sides at L4 ended in four wins and one draw in the Reds’ favour. The very recent result there, ended in a thumping 6-0 demolition, where the lads in Red took Marcelo Bielsa’s side by storm.

Team news

Naby Keita, Joel Matip, Diogo Jota, Luis Diaz and Arthur Melo will be out for this fixture.

Jordan Henderson is being assessed by the medical staff after sustaining a knock at AFC Ajax and Thiago is set to be included for the team selection.

Meanwhile, Jesse Marsch will remain without long-term absentees Stuart Dallas and Adam Forshaw, while Rodrigo, Liam Cooper, Tyler Adams, Joe Gelhardt, Luis Sinisterra, Leo Hjelde, Archie Gray are all doubts for the contest.

Summary

Securing a spot in the last 16 of the Champions League three days ago, gives Jurgen Klopp and his troops some piece of mind and belief they can hit the ground running in the domestic league.

If they keep concentration on a high level and stay on front foot, they should be alright with Leeds, who have their own woes. A point racked up against their league rivals would be satisfying for them. But this represents an uphill battle.