Liverpool begin the defence of their Premier League title when they entertain newly-promoted Leeds United at Anfield next weekend.
The Reds stormed their way to their first league title in 30 years after finishing a whopping 18 point ahead of nearest rivals Manchester City last season so it will take a special team to wrestle the title away from them this campaign.
Jurgen Klopp has been quiet in the transfer market so far as he’s relatively happy with his squad but the Merseysiders are being strongly linked with a swoop for Bayern Munich midfielder Thiago Alcantara. The Spaniard would be an excellent addition and would make Liverpool an even more formidable prospect this season so fans will be desperate for a deal to be agreed.
Leeds will hope Thiago isn’t a Liverpool player by the time they head to Anfield next Saturday evening as they look to celebrate their return to the top flight with a positive result at the home of the champions.
United finally secured their place back in the Premier League after winning the Championship last season but they know it’s going to be tough back in the big time and they couldn’t have been given a more daunting opening fixture.
Betting odds
According to the latest football betting odds, Liverpool are the 2/9 favourites to win this game. Leeds can be backed at 17/2 if you think they’ll shock the champions at Anfield while you can get 11/2 on the draw.
Leeds have the quality to create chances and there’s virtually no doubt Liverpool will score so ‘Both teams to Score’ at 9/10 looks a solid bet while over 2.5 match goals is also tempting at odds of 9/10.
If you want to bet on the correct score market, a 2-1 Liverpool win is available at odds of 13/2. For those who want a little more bang for their buck, you can go for 3-1 Liverpool at odds of 17/2.
Prediction
Liverpool 3-1 Leeds: It will be interesting to see how both teams start the campaign after mini pre-seasons as it may take them a little while to get up to full speed. Leeds will look to take advantage if Liverpool aren’t at their best but I still think the Reds will have far too much quality on the day.
Klopp will be looking to make a quick start to the new season and I can’t see past a home win as the champions should be virtually at full strength. Leeds can be a danger and may nick a goal but I fancy Liverpool to run out 3-1 winners at Anfield.
