Liverpool

Manchester United V Liverpool

Date & Kick-Off: Saturday, 11 February 2012 – 12:45 GMT

Venue: Old Trafford

Preview

The spotlight of the football world will fall on Old Trafford this weekend for what many believe is still the biggest, most high-profile encounter in English football. That’s right, Manchester United and Liverpool – the two most successful clubs in the history of the English game, with 37 top-flight titles between them – renew their fierce, age-old rivalry at the Theatre of Dreams in what has all the makings of a typically fiery contest in the north-west.

It almost goes without saying that the majority of the pre-match focus will be on Liverpool’s Luis Suarez, the controversial Uruguayan who was charged with racially abusing Manchester United’s Patrice Evra when the pair contested a 1-1 draw at Anfield on 15 October, 2011. Thus we can expect a volatile atmosphere in and around Old Trafford as the United faithful voice their ‘candid’ opinions of the South American, especially after Evra was jeered throughout last month’s FA Cup fourth-round clash on Merseyside.

Away from the controversial issues involving Suarez and Evra and if the team’s clash in the FA Cup last month is anything to go by, United are likely to exact their revenge at the weekend. Why? Because they were utterly dominate at Anfield, this in spite of losing the tie 2-1 courtesy of Dirk Kuyt’s late winner. They’re also in considerably better form, with three wins from their last four league games, plus morale will have rocketed after their stunning comeback away to Chelsea last weekend.

Liverpool, on the other hand, have really struggled of late, which is no surprise considering the amount of games they’ve contested recently. Cup scalps of both Man City and Man Utd are very impressive indeed, but it’s one win in five in the league for Kenny Dalglish’s weary side, after they were held to a goalless at home by Tottenham on Monday – the third occasion in their last five Premier League matches in which they have failed to even score. However the Reds have fared a lot better on their travels this season, with six of their ten league victories coming on the road, where they’ve beaten both Arsenal and Chelsea.

If Liverpool are crying out for some fresh impotence, an injection of energy perhaps, then the return of Luis Suarez couldn’t be any more timely. The 26-year-old has even been quoted as saying he will feed off of all the jeers, which is a frightening prospect considering he’s a handful when he isn’t fired up. It remains to be seen whether Kenny Dalglish’s unleashes his Jack in the Box from the outset, although his team’s lethargic showing in midweek would suggest he may.

You have to feel United will be running purely on adrenaline ahead of this clash, especially after their heroics at Chelsea last weekend. To come back from 3-0 down to draw 3-3 was a remarkable achievement, a real morale booster for a team rapidly building up ahead of steam. Key figures have been missing, the likes of Nemana Vidic, Chris Smalling, Phil Jones and Nani, but that hasn’t stopped Sir Alex’s Red Devils from winning three of their last four league games, including each of the previous two at Old Trafford without conceding a goal.

Match Pointers

Head-to-Head

Last Meeting: Liverpool 2-1 Manchester United (FA Cup); 28 January, 2012. A fairly tame affair by this fixture’s high standards was eventually won by Liverpool, who had Dirk Kuyt to thank for progress in the FA Cup. Daniel Agger had opened the scoring for the home side, but their lead was wiped out by Ji-Sung Park just before the half-time interval. However it was Kuyt who landed a telling blow late on for Kenny Dalglish’s men, slamming home a winner in the 88TH minute.

- Each of the last two Premier League meetings at Old Trafford were won by the home side, with United winning last season’s corresponding fixture 3-2 – Steven Gerrard struck twice for Liverpool, who were 2-0 down at the time, but Dimitar Berbatov was the hero for United as the Bulgarian struck a match-winning hat-trick.

- Since the 2004/05 season, Liverpool have beaten Manchester United once in seven Premier League visits to Old Trafford (W1 D0 L6).

- The pair contested a 1-1 draw at Anfield in their first league encounter of the season, a match remembered more for the unsavoury incident involving Liverpool’s Luis Suarez and Man Utd’s Patrice Evra than the goals scored by Steven Gerrard and Javier Hernandez.

Manchester United

- Last Sunday’s thrilling 3-3 draw at Chelsea leaves United trailing leaders Man City by two points going into this weekend’s mouthwatering contest, although victory would move them a point above Roberto Mancini’s side who are not in action until Sunday.

- Only Sunderland have taken more points over an eight-game period than United, who have registered 16 points from the 24 that went on offer (W5 D1 L2).

- United have won their previous two home Premier League games without conceding, in beating Bolton (3-0) and Stoke (2-0), with their record at home an impressive W9 D1 L2, scoring 35 goals whilst conceding 14.

Liverpool

- Last Monday’s goalless draw at home to Tottenham meant Liverpool remained in seventh in the league, four points behind Chelsea in fourth and those sought-after Champions League spots.

- Since the beginning of the year, Liverpool have only taken maximum points from one of their five Premier League matches (W1 D2 L2), with those two defeats coming away at Bolton (3-1) and Manchester City (3-0).

- Although they remain unbeaten at home in the league, Liverpool have actually won more times on their travels this season (6 compared with 4 back at Anfield; W6 D1 L5 away from home), and were emphatic 3-0 winners over Wolves in their latest away outing in the Premier League.

- Liverpool have kept three clean sheets in their last four league games, and boast one of the stronger away defences in the top-flight with only 13 conceded from 12 away games – only Chelsea and Man Utd have shipped fewer goals on their travels.

Betting

Prediction: Manchester United to WIN @ 910 (BetVictor)

With a raucous crowd and a volatile atmosphere, emotions could boil over at Old Trafford in what remains thee biggest game in English football. Supporters of both teams have been warned as to their conduct, but I can see that falling on deaf ears as kick-off approaches. This truly is unmissable, for so many reasons.

As far as the result goes, something tells me we’re in for a repeat of their FA Cup fourth-round encounter last month, only this time we’ll have the correct outcome. United were dominant from the word ‘Go’ at Anfield, bossing possession from start to finish and were in no way deserving of a 2-1 defeat. Luis Suarez is of course back for the visitors and although he will be a nuisance, his temperament has to be questioned. Other than the Uruguayan, I don’t see too many in this Liverpool team capable of causing a United rearguard which has kept six clean sheets at home this season too many problems.

Last week’s result at Chelsea was huge for United. The point was crucial, but even more so was the comeback. Every single player will be buzzing after those heroics, and that result will instil so much belief into the dressing room. With Wayne Rooney back to his inspired best, I genuinely feel United will be too strong for a Liverpool side who have tended to come good in the crunch games, against the best teams, but have played more games than most since the turn of the year and were tired and lethargic at home to Tottenham on Monday.

Value Bet: Wayne Rooney First Goalscorer @ 4/1 (Ladbrokes)

The United talisman was inspirational in his side’s stunning comeback at Chelsea last weekend, coolly tucking home two penalties. He was more than just a clinical penalty taker, he drove his team forward with his powerful, direct runs and he can once again be the inspiration for Sir Alex Ferguson and Manchester United as they look to maintain their impressive run at home to Liverpool, having won six of their last seven at Old Trafford versus their arch rivals.

Match Odds

Manchester United – 9/10 (BetVictor)

Draw – 13/5 (Bet365)

Liverpool – 7/2( StanJames)

Liverpool V Tottenham Hotspur

Date & Kick-Off: Monday, 6 February 2012 – 20:00 GMT

Venue: Anfield

Preview

After a weekend where all their rivals managed to pick up points of some form or another, Liverpool and Tottenham will be all too aware of the ramifications should they fail to collect any of their own at Anfield on Monday.

Impressive victories for Arsenal and Newcastle meant Liverpool dropped two places in the Barclay’s Premier League, without so much as kicking a ball. There was some good news, though – courtesy of a herculean effort from Manchester United, Chelsea were held to a 3-3 draw on Sunday meaning a win for the Reds here would see them move to within two-points of the Blues, whom occupy what would appear the one remaining Champions League berth for next season.

Unfortunately, though, Liverpool haven’t made a habit of winning at home this season. In fact, they’ve only won four of eleven at Anfield in the league and have drawn with the likes of Blackburn, Norwich, Sunderland and Swansea. But they are unbeaten there all season, in all competitions, too – and that does include recent scalps of Man City and Man Utd in the cups.

They’re a big game team, are Liverpool. Pit them against a side they should wipe the floor with and they invariably don’t; pit them against some of the finest this country has to offer and they’ll give you unrivalled value for money. Arsenal, Chelsea, Man City and Man Utd have all succumbed to the might of King Kenny and his charges at some point in the season, and they’ll be boosted by the return of Mr Controversial for the arrival of high-flyers Tottenham.

Uruguayan star Luis Suarez, who has not featured for the Reds since Boxing Day after serving a nine-match suspension for two separate incidents, has been included in the squad and, with Dalglish confirming the player has looked sharp in training, could be unleashed from the off. It will also be a rare chance for fans to see how Steven Gerrard, who is expected to start after sitting out Wednesday’s 3-0 league win at Wolves, links up with the man they call ‘El Pistolero’.

Whereas Liverpool welcome back crucial players for a crucial clash, Tottenham are set to be without several of their more influential figures for what is a must-win clash for them. William Gallas and Aaron Lennon are both ruled out while Rafael Van der Vaart, Jermain Defoe and Emmanuel Adebayor are all doubtful. The lack of forward personnel could lead to on-loan Louis Saha being handed his début, thrown straight in at the deep end after joining on deadline day from Everton.

With Manchester City cruising past Fulham on Saturday, Spurs know anything less than three-points would leave them with a mountain to climb as far as the title is concerned. However, their record on the road should breed confidence throughout the remaining ranks: only the two Manchester clubs have accrued more points on their travels this season than the North Londoners, who have won six and lost just two of eleven away Premier League games thus far.

Match Pointers

Last League Meeting: Tottenham 4-0 Liverpool; 18 September, 2011. Nine-man Liverpool were well and truly put to the sword at White Hart Lane, midfielder Luka Modric kicking off the rout with a spectacular effort in a match Spurs dominated from start to finish. Jermaine Defoe also got on the scoresheet, as did Emanuel Adebayor who bagged two. Martin Skrtel and Charlie Adam were dismissed for Liverpool.

- Tottenham had failed to win on any of their previous sixteen Premier League visits to Liverpool (D5 L11) before a 2-0 triumph at Anfield on the final day of last season.

- Victory at Anfield on Monday would complete a league double for Tottenham over Liverpool, with the North Londoners having inflicted the same fate on the Reds last season with victory at both Anfield and White Hart Lane.

Liverpool

- Victory over Tottenham would see Liverpool (League Position: 7TH; Form: WLDLW) climb above Arsenal into sixth, a point behind Newcastle in fifth and two off Chelsea in fourth.

- Leaders Man City are the only other team to remain unbeaten at home in the Premier League this season, although Liverpool have drawn seven of eleven at Anfield (W4 D7 L0 / GF14 GA8).

- The Reds have won only two of their last seven league matches (W2 D3 L2).

- Liverpool have not conceded more than one goal at Anfield in the league all season, keeping a clean sheet in three of their last five.

Tottenham

- Only the two Manchester clubs have collected more points on their travels than Tottenham, who have registered 20 points from a possible 33 away from home (W6 D2 L3).

- Spurs have lost only one of their last nine in the league (W5 D3 L1), but have won just one of their previous four (W1 D1 L2) – including a 3-2 loss to Man City in their most recent away encounter.

- Tottenham have scored at least one goal in each of their last ten Premier League away games, keeping just two clean sheets during this run themselves.

- Gareth Bale, January’s Player of the Month, has three in his last two league appearances – including a sublime effort at Man City a fortnight ago.

Betting

Prediction: Draw @ 12/5 (Bet365)

Following Sunday’s pulsating affair at Stamford Bridge between Chelsea and Manchester United, expectations are sky-high regarding Monday Night Football’s live clash at Anfield between Champions League hopefuls Liverpool and title-chasing Tottenham. Will it live up to the billing? Probably not, although there is enough world-class talent on show to produce a spectacle. Will we even get that? I’m not so sure either.

The ingredients are certainly there for a riveting watch; Gerrard & Suarez combining forces to take on thee irrepressible duo of Modric and Bale. However both managers have the utmost respect for one another and their teams, so we could see a lot of special treatment as Dalglish and Redknapp seek to nullify each other’s strengths. Dalglish falls into this trap more so, as he’s naturally a more cautious, tactful manager than Redknapp, who genuinely believes his team are capable of breaching any defence, even one as resolute as Liverpool’s. So expect Spurs to dominate with the ball and the Reds to counter.

Separating the two isn’t easy. In fact, I’ve found it impossible, which is baffling really considering we aren’t short of a match-winner or two. This should be extremely tight, possibly even cagey, so the draw has obvious appeal. That said, neither manager will be chuffed with a share of the spoils.

Value Bet: Penalty to be awarded @ 10/3 (WilliamHill)

A penalty has been awarded in four of the pair’s last five league meetings, including in last season’s Anfield encounter – Croatian schemer Luka Modric converting the second of Tottenham’s two goals in a 2-0 success for the Londoners.

Match Odds

Liverpool – 23/20 (PaddyPower)

Draw – 12/5 (Bet365)

Tottenham – 13/5 (StanJames)

At the weekend it was the FA Cup, now the focus in England switches swiftly to the Barclay’s Premier League as various tussles across the entire division resurface on Tuesday (31 Jan) and Wednesday (1 Feb).

Straight to matters at the summit and after Manchester City’s dramatic late win over Tottenham Hotspur on 22 January, it would seem the Premier League trophy is staying in Manchester. That aforementioned result ensured Roberto Mancini’s Citizens remained three-points clear of neighbours United, leaving Spurs lagging eight-points off the pace of the leaders.

Premier League Title Betting with Bet365: Man City 2/5, Man Utd 9/4, Tottenham 20/1

It could be all change, though, depending on Tuesday’s results, with all three title protagonists involved in proceedings.

Tottenham (1/4 WilliamHill) are presented with a fabulous opportunity to get straight back to winning ways in the league with a home clash against Wigan (16/1 BetVictor). The Latics currently prop up the division in 20TH and are without a win in seven, shipping ten goals in their last three away PL matches combined, but were, however, 1-0 winners on their last visit to White Hart Lane, in August of 2010.

Manchester United (3/10 888Sport) have won seven of their eight Premier League tussles with Stoke City (12/1 PaddyPower), including all three in Manchester, so any chance of the Red Devils slipping up at Old Trafford would appear slim. But the Potters did hold Liverpool to a 0-0 draw at Anfield in their most recent Premier League away game, while it was they who were the dominant force when the two sides locked horns earlier in the season at the Brittania in a 1-1 draw back in September.

Meanwhile, Man City (20/23 Boylesports) take on David Moyes’ inconsistent Everton (15/4 BetVictor) at Goodison Park. It is, however, a fixture the Citizens came unstuck in last season, losing 2-1 despite dominating the opening 45 minutes and taking a deserved 1-0 lead into the interval. Revenge is on the cards, though – Everton have won only two of their last eight home PL games, scoring just six times in the process, whereas City are searching for their fourth straight league win and are firm favourites to do so having had the weekend off due to their early exit from the FA Cup.

The race for fourth hots up with Chelsea and Liverpool both in action on Tuesday, at Swansea and Wolves respectively, with Arsenal taking on Bolton at The Reebok 24 hours later.

Top-Four Finish Betting with WilliamHill: Chelsea 2/5, Arsenal 2/1, Liverpool 7/2

Chelsea (17/20 WilliamHill) are the current occupants of fourth and are five-points clear of their closest pursuer, Arsenal, while Liverpool are a point further back in seventh. The Blues are the most likely to come a cropper. Though, you feel – Swansea (4/1 SkyBet) have been beaten just once in eleven home Premier League games this season and will still be buoyed by their 3-2 victory over Arsenal in their last encounter at the Liberty Stadium.

Speaking of Arsenal (8/11 Ladbrokes), the Gunners won’t have it easy either. Arsene Wenger’s side were unconvincing in the FA Cup at the weekend, edging past Aston Villa at home, and must now go to a resurgent Bolton (9/2 StanJames), who beat Liverpool 3-1 last time out at The Reebok in the league, desperate to avoid a third consecutive away defeat. Moreover, The Reebok was where Arsenal’s world came crashing down around them last season, with a 2-1 loss confirming the end of their title bid last April.

As for Liverpool (3/4 WilliamHill), well they are very much expected to complete a routine win at Wolves (17/4 StanJames) – a fixture they cruised to a 3-0 success in last season. Kenny Dalglish’s side have lost their previous two away league games, at Bolton and Man City, but responded emphatically with quick-fire eliminations of Man City and Man Utd from the Carling Cup and FA Cup. Now the Reds are hotly tipped to dispatch of second from bottom Wolves, who are without a league win in eight and have suffered four defeats in their previous five matches at Molineux in all competitions.

Elsewhere…

Mark Hughes’ QPR (4/1 BetVictor) go to Aston Villa (17/20 WilliamHill) with both sides searching for back-to-back Premier League wins; a Newcastle (7/4 Bet365) side thumped 5-2 at Fulham last time out in the league pay relegation favourites Blackburn (13/8 StanJames) a visit at Ewood Park; the previously mentioned Fulham (10/11 WilliamHill) entertain Roy Hodgson’s inconsistent Baggies (15/4 bWin), while a cracking contest could be in store at the Stadium of Light as Martin O’Neill’s invigorated Black Cats (17/20 WilliamHill) host Paul Lambert’s high-flying Canaries (15/4 BetVictor).

Full list of Premier League fixtures for Tuesday (31 Jan) and Wednesday (1 Feb):

Swansea V Chelsea

Tottenham V Wigan

Wolves V Liverpool

Everton V Man City (LIVE on SKY SPORTS 2)

Manchester United V Stoke

Aston Villa V QPR

Blackburn V Newcastle

Bolton V Arsenal

Fulham V West Brom

Sunderland V Norwich (LIVE on SKY SPORTS 2)

Bolton V Liverpool

Date & Kick-Off: Saturday, 21 January 2012 – 17:30 GMT

Venue: The Reebok

Preview

Toothless Liverpool go to Bolton on Saturday knowing anything less than three points against the team who reside second from bottom in the Barclay’s Premier League would put another huge dent in their bid for European football next season.

Last week’s frustrating goalless draw at home to Stoke was the seventh occasion this season whereby the Reds had failed to locate the back of the opposing net, while it also left them five points adrift of Chelsea in fourth who would move eight points clear of Kenny Dalglish’s men with victory at Carrow Road over Norwich in the first of this weekend’s top flight encounters.

Whereas Liverpool are in the mix fighting for a Champions League berth, Bolton find themselves down at the other end battling to retain their Premier League status. A resounding 3-0 loss away to Manchester United seven days ago was their 15th of the campaign – having lost more games than anyone else – and left them languishing in the relegation zone, a point off safety in 19th.

Their horrific goal difference (-21) means only a win this weekend will suffice for Bolton if they’re to make a rare appearance outside of the bottom-three. It’s been over six years since the Trotters last beat Liverpool in the league, losing each of their previous eleven Premier League meetings with the Anfield outfit, while at home Owen Coyle’s side have registered a measly four points from the thirty that went on offer. That equates to one win in ten home games (W1 D1 L8).

Bad Omens

Not a lot points to a home win. Bolton are a huge price with BetVictor, who goes 11/2 on success for the hosts. Just one league win at The Reebok all season is just one of several reasons why their odds of victory are so handsome, with the Trotters unfortunately posting the worst home figures in the top flight with only four points taken from a possible thirty. They’ve also scored just eleven times at home, but yet contrived to concede a league-high 24.

Chelsea and Manchester United both notched five on visits to Bolton earlier in the term. You wouldn’t bank on Liverpool doing the same, mind. Even those lowly Trotters have plundered more goals than Kenny Dalglish’s expensively-assembled side, which should surmise perfectly the latest and current crisis on Anfield that is scoring. Defensively they’re arguably the most resolute around, with only leaders Man City conceding fewer, but only goals can win you games and goals are what Liverpool have found mighty hard to come by this season.

Fortunately for Liverpool, they’re up against the leakiest team around in Bolton, whose figures of 46 conceded in 21 top flight games simply cannot be bettered – or worsened, whichever way you prefer to look at it. Will that make a blind bit of difference though? After all, the Reds have fired blanks in three of their last four away Premier League games. Moreover, star man Luis Suarez remains suspended, while the only recognised and available striker left at the club can’t even make the team-sheet in his absence.

Match Pointers

- Liverpool are on a ten-match winning streak versus Bolton in the Premier League, winning on each of their previous four visits to The Reebok.

- Bolton’s last Premier League victory over the Reds was in September 2007, when goals from Ivan Campo and the late Gary Speed earned the Trotters a 2-0 home success.

- Jordan Henderson scored his first goal for Liverpool at Anfield in their 3-1 win over Bolton back in August., the side’s first league meeting of the season.

- Bolton, who sit second from bottom, have only won once at The Reebok in the Premier League this season (W1 D1 L8), with their 5-0 victory over Stoke on 6 November being their last win on home soil.

- Liverpool (W9 D8 L4) reside in 7TH but are now five points adrift of the Champions League places after winning only one of their last five Premier League matches.

- Despite being twelve positions worse off than Liverpool, lowly Bolton (25) have netted more times than the Reds (24), although the Trotters do have the worst defence in the top flight (46) whereas Liverpool boast the second strongest defensive figures with only 18 conceded in 21 games.

- Liverpool have won just one of their last four Premier League away games but have recorded more wins on their travels (5) than at home (4).

Betting

Prediction: Liverpool to WIN @ 4/6 with Ladbrokes

Although they have struggled on the road in recent weeks, Liverpool have preferred playing away from home because teams tend not to park the bus. Bolton certainly won’t do that – they can’t, that’s why. The Trotters simply do not do defending; 46 conceded is a league-high, which must surely benefit a Liverpool team who create chances with ease but make heavier weather at converting them than any other side in the Premier League – the Reds have a conversion rate of 9%, which is also a league-high.

In spite of their scoring difficulties, I can’t back against Liverpool. Bolton are dire at the best of times defensively but without their rock, with Gary Cahill now officially a Chelsea player, it is impossible not to fear the worse for a team who leak goals left, right and centre. The visitors should create eve more goalscoring opportunities than usual, which can only aid their chances against a Bolton side who have lost eight of ten at The Reebok in the league.

Value Bet: Andy Carroll to Score @ 6/4 with Ladbrokes

He failed to even make the starting line-up for last week’s goalless draw with Stoke at Anfield, but Andy Carroll should now be a certain starter after Dirk Kuyt’s lacklustre display up front. We’re rapidly approaching three months since the powerful forward last found the back of the net, but he won’t have many better opportunities to end his duct and better his currently dismal record with the Reds than against the most porous defence in the Premier League.

Match Odds

Bolton – 11/2 BetVictor

Draw – 14/5 bWin

Liverpool – 4/6 Ladbrokes

Liverpool V Stoke

Date & Kick-Off: Saturday, 14 January 2012 – 15:00 GMT

Venue: Anfield

Preview

Stoke fans don’t have much to complain about these days; this is their fourth successive season in the Premier League, last May they were at Wembley competing for the FA Cup with Manchester City, while next month will see them host Spanish hot shots Valencia in the Last-32 of the UEFA Europa League. Yet, if there was one small complaint it would be their lack of a famous victory at one of the country’s most revered venues.

The chance to seize the moment and record a win that would forever go down in club folklore will present itself on Saturday, when Stoke pay a buoyant Liverpool a visit at one of the most iconic grounds in English football – Anfield. History will tell you they have no chance, with no Potters victory on Merseyside for almost half a century, but Stoke have been a problematic opponent for Liverpool in recent times, as recently as September in actual fact, when Tony Pulis’ men recorded a 1-0 win at The Brittania.

Away from their fortress however, Stoke remain largely unreliable. It was their Achilles heel last season, playing away from home, winning just three of nineteen away matches all term, but they’ve shown vast improvement of late; their 2-1 victory over Blackburn at Ewood Park on 2 January was their third away win in four, following up triumphs at Everton (0-1) and Wolves (1-2).

Still, Liverpool are a class above from those aforementioned teams who were recently put to the sword at home by Stoke, as they demonstrated in midweek by becoming only the second side in fourteen months to beat Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium. The Reds are also one of only two teams in the Premier League still to lose a home league game this season, although four wins and six draws isn’t the sort of form one of Liverpool’s calibre can be boastful of.

Liverpool’s inability to put inferior opposition to the sword at home has without question been their Achilles heel. The likes of Blackburn, Norwich, Sunderland and Swansea have all left Anfield unscathed this season, making Kenny Dalglish’s team an automatic no-go at odds-on for most punters. Star man Luis Suarez is also still suspended, which is another huge negative considering the Reds have struggled in front of goal even with him in the team, although the Uruguayan’s loss can be compensated by the return of talismanic skipper Steven Gerrard.

He’s only been back five minutes but already Steven Gerrard’s contribution can be felt; it was his quality from the bench which helped Liverpool see off Newcastle in their last league game at Anfield, which they won 3-1, and it was his confidently-struck penalty against Man City in the first leg of their Carling Cup semi-final which handed his team the initiative heading back to Anfield for the second leg in two week’s time.

So, inspired by their performance during the week against the current Barclay’s Premier League leaders, you would like to think Liverpool will be too strong for Stoke. But then that should have been the case on so many occasions. Plus Stoke have tasted recent success on Merseyside, beating Everton 1-0 at Goodison Park in December.

Match Pointers

- On the three occasions these two teams have clashed at Anfield in the Premier League, Liverpool have yet to lose, winning the last two, while Stoke have yet to score.

- In all competitions, Stoke have failed to record a win over Liverpool on Merseyside since 1959, when they won what must have been a 4-3 thriller in the Old Division Two – the Reds are unbeaten in 31 Anfield meetings since then, winning 28.

- Liverpool remain unbeaten on home soil this season with four wins and six draws, recording a 3-1 win over Newcastle in their last match at Anfield.

- The Reds saw their five-game streak without losing in the league diminish after losing 3-0 at Manchester City last time out – only their fourth reverse of the term (W9 D7 L4).

- Liverpool have scored one goal or fewer in seven of their ten home league games, although they have conceded a somewhat miserly 8 goals.

- Stoke have won five and lost only one of their previous eight Premier League matches (W5 D2 L1).

- The Potters are also targeting their fourth away win in five, having recorded wins at Everton (0-1), Wolves (1-2) and Blackburn (1-2) since the beginning of December.

- Away from home, though, Stoke have only mustered 8 goals, failing to score in four of ten away matches.

Betting

Is it wise to be backing Liverpool at 4/9 (General odds)? Perhaps not, certainly not in a singular bet. They’ve come unstuck against some really average teams at home; Blackburn and Norwich to name but a few, while we should also factor in just how much energy was exerted in their Carling Cup victory over Manchester City on Wednesday, in which they spent virtually the entire second half defending in their own half, chasing the ball.

Stoke, meanwhile, well they arrive in confident mood. They are safely through to the fourth round of the FA Cup after coming from behind to beat Gillingham, while it’s now three wins from four away from home after beating Blackburn 2-1 in their most recent league assignment. Potters boss Tony Pulis also has no fresh injuries or suspension so will pick from a full-strength squad.

Despite a turbulent couple of weeks, there is a buzz around Anfield. The return of their talisman, Steven Gerrard, has certainly lifted the mood on Merseyside, especially in the absence of fan-favourite Luis Suarez. They’ll also take an enormous amount of confidence and belief from their performance against Man City in midweek, which should set them up nicely as they bid to win for only the fifth time at Anfield in the league this season.

So, it’s a Liverpool win for me. They’re unlikely to blow Stoke away, mind. A 2-0 win is 2/1 with WilliamHill, while Steven Gerrard to open the scoring is 5/1 with PaddyPower. Both boast some form of appeal in a match the Reds have to be winning if they’re to keep in touch with the top-four.

Match Outcome: Liverpool to WIN – 4/9 Ladbrokes

Value Bet: 2-0 Liverpool (Correct Score) – 6/1 WilliamHill

Match Odds

Liverpool – 4/9 Ladbrokes

Draw – 7/2 Boylesports

Stoke – 15/2 PaddyPower

Liverpool V Oldham

Date & Kick-Off: Friday, 6 January 2012 – 20:00 GMT

Venue: Anfield

Preview

Could the first giant-killing of this year’s FA Cup take place at a ground which has staged its fair share of thrilling cup encounters over the years; home of seven-time winners Liverpool? It is highly unlikely what with the Merseyside club drawn at home to League One opposition in the form of Oldham, but then again the Reds were dumped out at this very stage last season – though their slayer on that occasion was none other than current English champions Manchester United.

A cup upset isn’t on the cards, let’s be frank about it – Liverpool sit a respectable sixth in the top flight and harbour aspirations of playing in the Champions League next season, whereas Oldham can be found languishing in mid-table in the third tier, without much in the way of Premier League experience. You can get odds of 25/1 on the shock of all shocks – an Oldham victory.

For Liverpool, the favourites, Friday’s clash provides them with an ample opportunity to get straight back to winning ways following their resounding defeat to Premier League leaders Man City on Tuesday. Just 72 hours is all Reds boss Kenny Dalglish has had to digest the disappointing result at Eastlands, and to prepare his team for yet another cup clash, which will be followed by the first leg of their Carling Cup semi-final with Man City on Wednesday.

A hectic period then for the top flight outfit, which is why speculation is rife as to whom will be involved at Anfield on Friday. Having poured plenty into their match on Tuesday, and with Man City awaiting them again in midweek, we are therefore unlikely to see many, if any, first-team regulars. Having said that, Kenny Dalglish is visibly determined to end the season with silverware, showing no mercy in the Carling Cup when naming his team-sheet.

Nevertheless, I would be surprised if the Liverpool line-up did not contain several fringe players, with possibly a few of the club’s younger stars making the bench. Pepe Reina should retain his place in goal but Jamie Carragher and Martin Kelly are certainties to start in defence, having found playing time limited in recent weeks. Midfielders Jay Spearing and Jonjo Shelvey also come into contention, as does Argentine Maxi, while up front Andy Carroll is desperate for a goal or two, to build up his fragile confidence.

Captain Steven Gerrard must surely come into contention as well, with the Reds skipper and talisman making his third successive appearance from the bench in the 3-0 loss to Man City earlier in the week following a long lay-off because of an ankle infection.

All in all, Liverpool should have far too much for Oldham, regardless of who starts if truth be told. The Latics have struggled against opposition in League One this season, hence why Paul Dickov’s charges sit 14TH in the table, while away from home they’ve won just three of twelve, failing to win any of their last eight. It’s a tall order for the team likely to be spearheaded by 35-year-old Shefki Kuqi, whom has been on the losing side at Anfield on every visit with former clubs Blackburn, Newcastle and Sheffield Wednesday.

Match Pointers

- First competitive meeting for 18-years; Liverpool won the last 3-0, at Oldham, during the 1993/94 Premiership season, and also won the Anfield encounter 2-1.

- Oldham haven’t beaten Liverpool on Merseyside for almost a century, since their 2-1 victory way back in 1914 – that was one of just two wins in fourteen visits to Liverpool for the Latics, who have suffered defeats on each of their previous eight trips to Anfield.

- Liverpool sit 6TH in the Premier League (W9 D7 L4), 51 places above Oldham (W8 D7 L9) who sit 14TH in League One.

- In their respective divisions, Liverpool remain unbeaten on their own patch (W4 D6 L0) whereas Oldham have won only three of twelve away matches in the third tier of English football (W3 D5 L4).

- Last time out Liverpool were resoundingly beaten 3-0 at Man City – their first loss for nearly a month, ending a five-match unbeaten streak – while Oldham drew their fifth consecutive away game at Chesterfield 1-1 (they’ve now gone seven without winning away from home).

Betting

Not a lot of value to be had here, so not a lot of point getting involved, especially seeing as this tie won’t be shown live on the tele – surprising as that is. However, those who do fancy a flutter on Friday may be interested in potential first goalscorers.

Andy Carroll is a prime candidate should he start, and at 10/3 isn’t all that bad a price, considering the brunt of the chances should fall his way. Steven Gerrard appeals at 5/1, as does Maxi at 13/2. Personally, though, I’m rather taken with Jonjo Shelvey.

The central midfielder has found opportunities at a premium under Dalglish, but with Lucas out for the rest of the season his only rival for a regular run in the first-team is Jay Spearing, so he’ll be keener than most to make his presence felt. The 19-year-old also found goals markedly easier to come by while on loan at Blackpool in the Championship, so League One Oldham should be cannon fodder. Bet365 offer 12/1 on the former Charlton man opening the scoring, and in doing so opening his account for the Reds.

Those interested in the Correct Score market may find the odds on 3-0 and 4-0 home wins alluring, at 6/1 and 8/1 respectively with Ladbrokes.

Recommended Bet: Jonjo Shelvey First Goalscorer – 12/1 Bet365

Manchester City V Liverpool

Date & Kick-Off: Tuesday, 3 January 2012 – 20:00 GMT

Venue: Etihad Stadium

Preview

Humbled by lowly Sunderland on New Year’s, Manchester City retreat to fortress Etihad for their next encounter – a tussle with a resurgent Liverpool, whom the Citizens have beaten just once in the previous thirteen Premier League meetings.

There has barely been any time for the dust to settle on their dramatic loss to mid-table Sunderland but already leaders City are thrust straight back into the action, just 48 hours after crashing to only their second defeat of the term in the North East. Nevertheless, Roberto Mancini’s team remain top of the pile – only just, mind – courtesy of Blackburn doing them a huge favour by beating Man Utd 3-2 at Old Trafford on the final day of 2011.

City chief Roberto Mancini knows his side cannot afford to rely on favours from others if they’re to end the season Premier League champions, though, which is why he expects his imperious charges, who have not dropped a single point at home all season, winning nine out of nine thus far, to respond like all potential champions must, and that’s by winning the very next fixture.

It just so happens that City’s next assignment is one which has caused them numerous problems over the years, at home to Liverpool. The Reds have only succumbed to the Manchester club once in the previous thirteen league meetings – which was the most recent meeting in Manchester, back in August 2010, when they went down 3-0 – and were arguably the better side when the two teams met at Anfield last November, with City owing a lot to the goalkeeping brilliance that day of Joe Hart who helped them cling on for dear life to a 1-1 draw.

You’d naturally assume City will turn the tide at the Etihad Stadium, where they have been utterly dominant all season – all year in fact – taking 52 points from a possible 54 at home in 2011. They’ve also scored goals for absolute fun at home this season, averaging three a game, conceding just the four themselves, although the only team of any real note they’ve faced was Arsenal – and you could certainly argue that they were very fortunate to edge that 1-0.

Make no mistake, this is Manchester City’s toughest match of the season so far – because it comes at a time when so many, after seeing them lose twice within the space of a month and fail to win any of their last four away matches, are beginning to question their title credentials for the very first time. Plus Liverpool are arguably a more potent threat on their travels than at Anfield, with five of their nine victories having been earned away from Merseyside.

Furthermore, few would argue that Kenny Dalglish’ men are a team for the big occasion. They’ve given both Manchester clubs a torrid time at Anfield, despite only conjuring 1-1 draws in both, but were worthy winners at both Arsenal and Chelsea and with star man Luis Suarez back from suspension, as well as talisman Steven Gerrard back from injury, would you dare back against them claiming another big-named scalp – quite possibly the biggest around?

Match Pointers

- City have won just one of their previous 13 Premier League meetings with Liverpool (W1 D6 L6), and just one of the last six in Manchester (W1 D3 L2).

- Their reverse encounter at Anfield in November finished 1-1; Vincent Kompany had opened the scoring for Man City, but that lead lasted just two minutes after Charlie Adam’s long-range effort was deflected into his own net by City defender Joleon Lescott.

- Liverpool have failed to score on four of their previous five visits to the Etihad Stadium, losing last season’s clash 3-0.

- Man City boast the only 100% home record in the top flight, winning all nine league games there so far, scoring 28 goals and conceding just 4.

- Liverpool have won more league fixtures away from home this season (W5 D1 L3), and have kept clean sheets in four of their last six away matches.

- The Reds are also unbeaten in their last five Premier League games (W3 D2).

Betting

Match Prediction: Draw @ 13/5 SkyBet

One thing I have learnt this season is Liverpool shouldn’t be opposed in the crunch encounters, so the Reds at 7/2, who should have beaten both City and United at Anfield but did manage to get the better of Arsenal and Chelsea in London, appear sensational value to achieve a feat nobody managed throughout the whole of 2011, which is to beat Roberto Mancini’s star-studded Citizens in Manchester.

But… City have been formidable at home this season; no-one so far has taken a point from them at Eastlands, few have even managed to score past Joe Hart there, so it remains a monumental ask for King Kenny & Co, even though they go to Manchester better equipped than most.

Nonetheless, I still think the visitors are good value to take at least a point away with them; they’ll be well-organised and compact throughout the team and won’t allow their hosts any room in behind their resolute defence, which has conceded just 15 goals all season, and just two in their previous five league games. They’ll also be a constant threat on the break, with a refreshed Luis Suarez especially dangerous.

First Goalscorer: Luis Suarez @ 8/1 StanJames

A contest packed full of potential goalscorers, though it must be said most of those who appeal ply their trade in Manchester. Edin Dzeko is unlikely to start seeing as he started the 1-0 defeat to Sunderland (he was also useless), so Sergio Aguero (5/1 StanJames) is expected to lead the line, possibly alongside Mario Balotelli (11/2 bWin), who didn’t feature at all at the Stadium of Light. David Silva (17/2 StanJames) was a second-half substitute and will also return to the team-sheet, though he was very quiet at Anfield a couple of months ago.

Only two players stand out in Liverpool’s team; top scorer Luis Suarez, who will be fresh for his one-match ban that he served on Friday against Newcastle, and captain Steven Gerrard (12/1 StanJames), who turned the aforementioned game on its head when he was introduced midway through the second period, even scoring the crucial third which sealed a hard-earned 3-1 win for his team. Both are capable of brilliance, which is what could be required if the Reds are to find a way past the irrepressible Joe Hart.

Correct Score: 1-1 @ 13/2 WilliamHill

This shouldn’t be a game littered with goals, a contest which brings the two strongest defences together; Man City have only shipped four goals on home soil all season while Liverpool have conceded a miserly seven on the road, keeping clean sheets in four of their previous six.

SportingBet go 11/1 on a 0-0 draw, which does seem impossible with all the attacking talent on show, which is why I am taken with the odds of 13/2 with WilliamHill on a 1-1 draw.

Man City have founds goals very easy to come by at home, so a home win by a scoreline of 1-0 at 7/1, and 2-0 at 9/1, both with Coral, will probably attract some interest. 3-0 is 16/1 with the same firm.

Those who fancy Liverpool to edge this, as they did at Arsenal and Chelsea, may be enticed by the odds available on the same scorelines reversed: a 1-0 win for the visitors is 12/1 with 888Sport, while 2-0 is gigantic odds at 25/1 with StanJames. A 3-2 win for the Reds, which was the score when they last won at Eastlands three seasons ago, is a mouthwatering 40/1 with bet365!

Match Odds

Manchester City – 10/11 VictorChandler

Draw – 13/5 SkyBet

Liverpool – 7/2 PaddyPower

Liverpool V Newcastle

Date & Kick-Off: Friday, 30 December 2011 – 19:45 GMT

Venue: Anfield

Preview

Sixth-placed Liverpool, who have now drawn back-to-back league games following their disappointing home draw with Blackburn on Boxing Day, have been dealt a huge blow ahead of Friday’s Premier League encounter with Newcastle at Anfield after the FA decided to charge man of the moment, Luis Suarez, with improper conduct.

The Uruguayan has been handed a £20,000 fine along with a one-match suspension, which he will serve on Friday against seventh in the table Newcastle, after a gesture he made towards Fulham fans at Craven Cottage on 5 December. Suarez has been the Reds’ star performer this season and accounts for almost a quarter of their total goals (5 of 21).

So then, just how significant is this latest sanction? Very. Considering Liverpool have struggled for goals all season, barely plundering a goal per game, to lose not only their leading marksmen but a player of world-class calibre is massive in the context of Friday’s game, against a rejuvenated Newcastle, whom would leapfrog their opponents with a famous win on Merseyside.

You have to cast your minds right back to 1994 for Newcastle’s last Premier League victory over Liverpool on Merseyside, with the Reds having won 14 of the subsequent 16 league meetings since. However, the iconic home of the 18-time English champions has been a cauldron of frustration this season; Liverpool have only mustered three wins at home all season, drawing six of nine, and were held to a 1-1 draw by rock-bottom Blackburn on Boxing Day.

The Magpies will also take a lot of heart and self-belief from their 2-0 victory over Bolton last time out, a result which lifted them to within a point of Liverpool, who have conjured up just five goals in their last six contests at Anfield. In fact, Alan Pardew’s men have plundered more goals on the road this season (12) than Kenny Dalglish’s charges have managed at home (11).

There is little doubt as to who Newcastle’s biggest dangerman is right now – Demba Ba. The 26-year-old Senegalese international is the Premier League’s second most prolific striker with 14 goals, one behind Robin Van Persie, and has five in his last four starts. It will be intriguing to see how he fares on Friday though, up against the top flight’s strongest defence, with Liverpool having only shipped 14 goals so far, and just one in their last four!

In contrast, Liverpool find themselves reliant on a forward devoid of any confidence. Andy Carroll, a £35-million signing in January from Newcastle, will face up against his former team-mates on Friday for the first time since his big-money move. If his inclusion was decided on form alone, just three goals all season would probably see him benched against his former employers. But with Luis Suarez suspended, Carroll is now a certain starter – cue bemoaning cries from the Kop.

Match Pointers

Four of the last five Premier League encounters between the two sides have finished as Liverpool victories (W4 D0 L1), with the Reds outscoring the Magpies by 18 goals to 4 during this period.

Liverpool have won each of the previous six league meetings on Merseyside, the previous five without conceding a goal.

Newcastle’s last win at Anfield was way back in 1994, when they won 2-0 courtesy of goals from Rob Lee and Andy Cole.

Dirk Kuyt has scored five in eight appearances for Liverpool versus Newcastle, netting in each of the last three – though he is yet to score this season.

Liverpool have drawn five of their last six Premier League games on home soil, conjuring up just five goals in the process.

Just one team – Tottenham, on the final day of last season – have recorded a Premier League victory over Liverpool at Anfield in 2011 (W10 D8 L1).

Newcastle ended a run of six league games without a win when beating Bolton 2-0 at The Reebok on Boxing Day, a match which saw striker Demba Ba notch his 14th goal of the term.

The Magpies have won 4 of 9 away Premier League fixtures so far this season (W4 D3 L2), and did hold Manchester United to a 1-1 draw at Old Trafford on 26 November.

Betting

Victory over Bolton on Boxing Day – the same day Liverpool were being held by Blackburn at home – ended a winless run of six for Newcastle. A timely boost ahead of a fixture they usually dread, a fixture they were beaten resoundingly in last season 3-0, and with the Reds currently in dire straits; can’t win at home, won’t score for love nor money, and with star man Luis Suarez suspended, surely the Magpies are value to come away with at least a share of spoils?

Newcastle held Manchester United to a score-draw at Old Trafford earlier in the month, so there is absolutely no doubt Alan Pardew can mastermind a result of some kind. Demba Ba is almost unplayable at the minute, scoring five in his last four starts, while defensively they have been very sound and reliable for the most part.

I don’t think the visitors have it quite in them to record a famous Anfield win, but a draw is by no means out of the question. Liverpool have drawn an incredibly abnormal amount of games at home so far, six of nine, and it could pay to back another what with the Reds forced to put their faith in misfiring Andy Carroll.

By the way, those who fancy Demba Ba to continue his purple patch can get sublime odds of 11/4 (WilliamHill) on him finding the back of Pepe Reina’s net at Anfield (he’s 8/1 to score the game’s first!). Meanwhile Andy Carroll, who has not scored at Anfield since scoring a brace against Man City back in April, is a best-priced 11/2 (Bet365) to open the scoring in the absence of Luis Suarez.

Match Prediction: Draw – 10/3 Boylesports

Value Bet: Demba to Score – 11/4 WilliamHill

Match Odds

Liverpool – 4/7 PaddyPower

Draw – 10/3 Boylesports

Newcastle – 13/2 Bet365

Liverpool V Blackburn

Date & Kick-Off: Saturday, 26 December 2011 – 15:00 GMT

Venue: Anfield

Preview

Blackburn manager Steve Kean has been living on borrowed time for a while now, so quite how he remains at the helm following his team’s demoralising loss at home to relegation rivals Bolton – a result which consigned the Lancashire club to spending Christmas bottom of the Premier League – is a conundrum. But he is – somehow, to the sheer dismay of fans.

Just one team in the previous 19 seasons of the Premier League has avoided relegation after spending Christmas at the bottom of the pile. An ominous statistic for rock-bottom Blackburn, who find themselves five points adrift of safety after their 2-1 defeat to then-bottom Bolton in midweek. Even more ominous is their upcoming fixtures; on New Year’s eve they go to defending champions United at Old Trafford, but not before visiting Anfield.

Liverpool have not lost a Premier League home game all season, winning three of eight. In fact, Tottenham are the only team to have won there in 2011. Throw in this beauty: each of the previous four meetings on Merseyside have gone the way of the home side, and you see why the end is probably nigh for Rovers boss Steve Kean, whose team have yet to win away from home this season (W0 D4 L4).

Suarez & Co seek positive response

It has been a turbulent week for Kenny Dalglish and Liverpool. The FA decided to charge star man Luis Suarez for comments aimed at Manchester United’s Patrice Evra in the team’s October clash, with the Uruguayan handed an eight-match suspension. A devastating blow for a team who have relied so heavily on the attacking exploits of one of the Premier League’s star performers in 2011.

Suarez is now set to miss a large portion of Liverpool’s January and February fixtures, which, considering they have been annoyingly inconsistent all season, does not bode well in the long-term as the Reds target a top-four finish. The ban doesn’t come into affect until the New Year though, which means ‘El Pistolero’ is available to face hapless Blackburn on Boxing Day.

With or without their new-found talisman, Liverpool have struggled to add some continuity to their results this season. Wednesday’s frustrating goalless draw at Wigan being the latest prime example, with the Reds yet again spurning numerous scoring opportunities to drop crucial points, as they did at home to Norwich, Sunderland and Swansea earlier in the term. A repeat against basement occupants Blackburn is unthinkable, surely.

End is nigh for Rovers chief

If losing at home to a side who had previously lost 13 out of 16 in the league wasn’t enough to lose him his job, Blackburn fans will be hoping successive defeats away to Liverpool and Manchester United will finally prompt the club’s passive owners to yield the axe on a man despised by the Ewood Park faithful.

I am of course talking about Steve Kean, the defiant Glaswegian who refuses to throw in the towel despite being bloodied and bruised and with seemingly nothing left to give. Tuesday’s defeat to Bolton – on home soil – really should have been the last straw. It wasn’t, though, and I have absolutely no idea why.

If anything the performances are getting worse. They didn’t start at all well on Tuesday, falling behind after six minutes, and duly got what they deserved, which was nothing in terms of points. It was their third consecutive defeat – all of them bizarrely by 2-1 scorelines – and another lethargic start from Rovers at Anfield could see them on the wrong end of a massacre, especially seeing as they are missing several key defenders – a defence, may I add, that has shipped 39 goals in just 17 games.

Match Pointers

- Liverpool have triumphed in each of the previous four Premier League meetings on Merseyside, with their last defeat in this fixture coming a little over 18 years ago, back in 1993.

- Kenny Dalglish’s team have only tasted defeat once in their their last 12 Premier League matches (W6 D5 L1), but they were held to a frustrating goalless draw away to Wigan in midweek.

- The Reds are without defeat at home all season, though they have only won three of eight at Anfield (W3 D5 L0).

- No team has conceded fewer goals than Liverpool (13), who have so far kept seven clean sheets – including in each of their previous three matches.

- Blackburn dropped to 20th (bottom) following their 2-1 reverse at home to Bolton during the week, with Rovers now five points adrift of safety after a run of three straight defeats.

- Steve Kean’s side have yet to record an away win this season (W0 D4 L4), conceding over two goals per away game on average – 19 in total from eight.

- Rovers have conceded precisely three goals on five occasions on their travels, doing so at Aston Villa, Newcastle, Norwich, Stoke and Wigan, who are all what you might call ‘lesser sides’ than Liverpool.

Betting

Prediction: Liverpool to WIN – 2/7 Ladbrokes

‘Sooner or later we will record a handsome victory’. You could argue Kenny Dalglish is beginning to sound like a broken record, but he does have a point. His team somehow manage to dominate sides, create a bountiful of chances, and yet still end up either edging out teams or failing to win entirely. There is absolutely no problem with the levels of creativity at the club; players who can stick the ball in the back of the net however are evidentially at a premium.

Liverpool’s scoring exploits don’t even compare with their rivals, despite boasting a wealth of creative riches. Nevertheless, you have to give them perfect marks for perseverance, as they continue to carve out openings every single game, regardless of the opponent. Well, their opponent this time round just so happens to be hapless Blackburn, a team propping up the table in 20^th and with one of the leakiest back-lines around.

I see this going one way and one way only, and that’s handsomely in favour of the home side. Despite frustrating so many at home this season by drawing games you would ordinarily expect them to win comfortably, Liverpool should go to town on sorry Blackburn. Chances have invariably found their way past an often despairing Paul Robinson in the Rovers goal, so this could be a case of Suarez & Co helping themselves.

Value Bet: Liverpool to Score 4 or More – 3/1 PaddyPower

Match Odds

Liverpool – 2/7 Ladbrokes

Draw – 9/2 Bet365

Blackburn – 14/1 VictorChandler

Liverpool V Queens Park Rangers

Date & Kick-Off: Saturday, 10 December 2011 – 15:00 GMT

Venue: Anfield

Preview

Liverpool have so far been unable to get the better of the promoted teams at home this season, so can Queens Park Rangers at least equal the achievements of Norwich and Swansea at Anfield on Saturday, who both earned hard-fought draws at the iconic home of the Reds? Three defeats in their previous four away matches would suggest possibly not, but then again Neil Warnock’s charges have fared slightly better on their travels in their first top flight campaign for 15 years.

It’s hard to really gauge where Rangers are at their strongest. They were the first side to record a win over Andre Villas-Boas’ Chelsea back in October, while the following month they also pushed league leaders Manchester City to their limits, before finally succumbing to the Citizens’ offensive prowess. Both were at home. However, three of their four victories were earned on their travels.

The best part of twenty-years have passed since QPR last went to Anfield and reigned supreme, back in 1991. Although they have chalked up more wins on the road this season, and while Liverpool have struggled to break teams down at home, the West Londoners are unlikely to roll back the years at a ground where its occupants have suffered only one defeat in their last sixteen Premier League home games.

Liverpool

League Position: 7th

League Form: WDWDL

On the back of their first Premiership defeat for three months, Liverpool host a promoted side for the third occasion in the form of a spirited QPR who, on paper anyway, really ought to be prime for the taking for Kenny Dalglish’s men. Having said that, we did mutter something very similar before their encounters with Norwich and Swansea only to be left with red faces.

Monday’s 1-0 loss to Fulham at Craven Cottage ended a promising run of eight unbeaten in the league for Liverpool, who now find themselves five points adrift of the Champions League spots after a weekend where every team perched above them in the league registered maximum points, with the exception of Newcastle. So a week to forget for the Reds, in more ways than one.

As if the result at Craven Cottage wasn’t damaging enough, the loss of Jay Spearing, due to suspension, could be detrimental to their chances of an instant recovery. The holding midfielder, who was deputising for the injured Lucas, controversially saw red for a tackle on Fulham’s Mousa Dembele and will subsequently sit out Liverpool’s next three league games leaving his manager with a tough decision to make as to exactly who will fill the gaping hole left in the centre of midfield.

With Steven Gerrard no nearer to a return, Daglish may decide to deploy Jordan Henderson as a makeshift defensive midfielder, or go with Jonjo Shelvey, who was enjoying a decent vein of form on loan at Blackpool before the club opted to recall the former Charlton schemer following news that Lucas would miss the remainder of the campaign. Luis Suarez could also miss several games over Christmas after the FA charged the Uruguayan with improper conduct for his one-finger salute at Fulham.

Queens Park Rangers

League Position: 12th

League Form: LLWLD

Having held their own at home to Chelsea and Man City, QPR shouldn’t be overawed by the prospect of facing one the country’s most decorated clubs at one of the most iconic grounds in the country – Liverpool, at Anfield. But three defeats in their last four away contests, along with the disappointment of drawing with West Brom at home last weekend, doesn’t exactly leave them well equipped to spring a surprise.

It remains a gargantuan task. Only Tottenham have won at Anfield in the league in 2011, so they’ll certainly be joining a scarce list should they do the unthinkable. So is a Rangers’ victory just that – unthinkable? Probably. I mean, Neil Warnock doesn’t have the calibre of player that his opposite number boasts, certainly not in depth, though that can be compensated by spirited and endeavour, characteristics his team boast in abundance – most of the time anyway.

Any team who can push Manchester City close, give Tottenham a good game, and beat Chelsea merit the utmost respect. But defeats at Norwich and Wigan, as well as a heavy 6-0 loss at Fulham, do underline their inconsistency away from home, and why backing them to get a result this weekend is incredibly difficult.

Having a forward bang in form certainly helps their cause. Icelandic international Heidur Helguson has a remarkable five in his last six Premier League appearances and is keeping Jay Bothroyd on the bench – not that the latter is any great achievement, to be fair. Nevertheless, he is a player in sparkling form and if wingers Armand Traore and Shaun Wright-Phillips enjoy some success out on the flanks, then perhaps QPR could exploit the aerial prowess of the in-form striker.

Match Pointers

- First competitive meeting for fifteen years, since the 1995/1996 Premier League campaign when Liverpool won home and away versus QPR.

- Liverpool’s eight-game unbeaten league run (W4 D4) came to an end at Fulham last time out, losing 1-0 at Craven Cottage.

- The Reds are still unbeaten at home however (W2 D5), though they’ve drawn far too many for Kenny Dalglish’s liken.

- Four of Liverpool’s five draws at home this season were by a 1-1 scoreline.

- QPR have won more games away from home (W3 D0 L4), although they have suffered three defeats in their last four matches on the road.

- Rangers were victorious on their most recent recent to Merseyside, back in August, beating Liverpool’s local rivals Everton 1-0 at Goodison Park.

- Striker Heidur Helguson has five goal in his last six Premier League appearances.

Betting

Reeling from their first defeat in three months, Liverpool will expect to hope straight back on the proverbial horse when they entertain QPR on Saturday. The latter have produced several eye-catching displays against the bigger sides this season, namely against Chelsea and Man City at home, but do go into the game having lost three of their previous four on the road and could well find themselves outclassed by a Liverpool side chomping at the bit to avenge the Fulham loss.

Joey Barton and Shaun Wright-Phillips, and even Heidur Helguson on current form, are all capable of troubling the hosts. Unfortunately, Liverpool boast twice as many who could really terrorise a QPR defence that has conceded over two goals on average on their travels. Stewart Downing could return to the side after starting Monday’s match with Fulham on the bench, while Jordan Henderson may also get a chance to shine in the centre of midfield. Either way, they’ll be a fair few in the Liverpool camp with a point or two prove – though arguably none more so than Luis Suarez.

As talented as he is, Suarez is establishing a nasty reputation. He faces two charges which could see him collect a hefty suspension, so he owes it to the rest of his team to produce the goods on Saturday in what could be his final match in 2011.

Prediction: Liverpool to WIN – 4/11 Coral

Value Bet: Luis Suarez to Score 2 or More Goals – 15/4 Bet365

Match Odds

Liverpool – 4/11 Coral

Draw – 22/5 VictorChandler

QPR – 10/1 Ladbrokes