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Reds Welcome Hammers to Anfield

With the first game of the Reds’ Europa League journey successfully completed, the supporters’ attention now turns back to the Premier League, where matchday six awaits Liverpool and their visiting opposition. After West Ham also won their opening Europa group game (3-1) on the same night, both sides will be intent on maintaining their solid campaign starts on Sunday afternoon. This should very much become a super Sunday for two of the divisions form teams.

The Hammers Availability

In terms of availability, the Hammers will be without Aaron Cresswell, who sustained a hamstring injury on Thursday evening. Jarrod Bowen will have recovered from a virus to make the matchday squad, yet it may not mean a start after the impressive outing of Mohammed Kudus in the week.

David Moyes’ side currently sits 6th in the English Premier League, with three wins, a draw, and a loss from their five games played. After an inconsistent domestic campaign last season, this start is looking close to ideal, especially after losing their former captain, Declan Rice, to Arsenal in the summer. Before a home loss (1-3) to Manchester City last weekend, two impressive away wins were recorded against Luton (1-2) and Brighton (1-3), which should put them in good shape for their visit to Anfield.

A predicted line-up is listed below.

The Liverpool Availability

The 3rd placed Reds host West Ham on the back of four wins and one draw from their six games played. Last weekend saw a second-half turnaround to enable a 1-3 win (away to Wolves), after a 3-0 home win against Aston Villa, which came following a vital 1-2 away win against Newcastle.

In terms of availability, Jürgen Klopp may still be without Trent Alexander-Arnold (though he is back in training), while Thiago Alcântara continues to perch on the medical table. Ryan Gravenberch sustained cramp on Thursday evening; therefore, he is unlikely to start.

Below is an opinion on what Sunday’s starting line-up may look like, which is very much splitting opinion across the fanbase. I feel like Curtis Jones is likely to come back into the team for young Stefan, however, I agree with the rest of those picked. Form and fitness are key for Liverpool, with three games to be played next week.

https://twitter.com/theliverpoolera/status/1705243074908062127?s=46&t=rxgukmqdoXc4muVFLSx2EQ

How Will This Contest Play Out

I believe this weekend is when Mohamed Salah is likely to explode. With twelve goal involvements in his previous twelve games against the East London side, it is logical to assume he performs well against them. With some words being said about himself and the Reds (by Michail Antonio) in the week, it could be that he is primed and ready to wreak some Anfield havoc before Halloween arrives. West Ham will look to absorb, allow the hosts to dominate the ball, and eventually counter at pace, with their front four looking menacing in transition. This will be a very tight affair that could hinge on the set-piece brilliance of James Ward-Prowse. I do sense that the home side’s pattern variations and numerous goal threats will be telling, which should lead to a narrow win for the Reds.

Player to Watch – Mohamed Sal

Score Prediction

Liverpool 2 – 1 West Ham

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