Liverpool vs West Ham: Reds out to equal Manchester City record
Liverpool play host to West Ham United in a rare Monday evening match, where Jurgen Klopp and the Reds will attempt to make it 18 wins in a row, tying Manchester City’s Premier League record.
They will be looking to rebound from a lackluster performance midweek past in Madrid. Losing to Atletico 1-0, where they were shut out for the first time this season (discounting cup ties). They could produce no shots on goal in Madrid, so expect the lads to have their shooting boots on when David Moyes bring his Hammers to Anfield Road.
Liverpool will be without the services of their captain and midfield rock in Jordan Henderson; an obvious candidate for PFA player of the year. Henderson pulled a thigh muscle in the tie in Madrid and will be out 3 weeks. Otherwise, expect Klopp to have a full compliment to choose from.
This is Moyes’ second stint in the hot seat for the Hammers, in less than two years. He was recalled after Manuel Pellegrini’s sacking in late December. The wiley Scotsman is no stranger to the Premier League, having managed at Everton, Manchester United, Everton, and Sunderland. He has plenty of experience at Anfield.
Currently sitting 18th in the league table, the Hammers are facing a relegation battle in their remaining dozen fixtures. But finding points at Anfield could well prove to be a ‘bridge too far’ for a wounded and out of form side having lost three out of their last four fixtures.
To be sure, Klopp will not be underestimating the Hammers poor form of late, as they have some quality players in the side, and Moyes is a skilled tactician.
You can bet money his Hammers will be looking to take down the league leaders and presumptive champions, as this is tantamount to a Cup final as far as their season goes.
Robby Earle predicts a 3-0 Liverpool win and that about squares with what I have as well. If the Reds score early and get their game on this could well turn into a rout of 4 or even 5-0.
Predicted line up for the Reds: Allison, Robertson, Gomez, Van Dijk, Milner, Fabinho, Keita, Oxlade-Chamberlain, Mane, Firmino, Salah.
Next. Klopp and Edwards are going to end Divock Origi. dark
Expect Virgil van Dijk or James Milner to take charge of the captain’s armband in Hendo’s absence. Look for Takumi Minamino and Trent Alexander-Arnold to make second half appearances, with Joel Matip and Dejan Lovren in reserve for defensive duties if necessary.
Words by Paul Landwehr.