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Liverpool v Burnley – The Premier League Preview

For this weekend encounter, Liverpool will entertain struggling Burnley in the 24th game of each club’s 2023/24 Premier League campaign. The fight for each club could not be more different, as the reds look to extend (or perhaps regain) their lead at the top of the table, whilst the Clarets are scrambling to maintain their place in the English top flight. Manchester City entertain Everton a couple of hours prior to this game, which could see them move one point clear of Liverpool. Burnley must start picking up points, as their current predicament looks ominous.

The Burnley Availability

On the injury front, the visitors will be without Nathan Redmond and Luca Koleosho, whereas Jordan Beyer, Hannes Delcroix, and Charlie Taylor, are all listed as doubtful.

In terms of recent form, the side which was promoted in 2023, recorded a solid 2-2 draw at home to Fulham last time out, after losing 3-1 was to Manchester City. The week prior was a major disappointment, as Vincent Kompany’s men managed only a 1-1 at home to the team they must look to catch, Luton. After 23-games played, Burnley have just 13-points and sit in 19th position in the table, seven points from safety. Everton are 18th in the Premier League table, with just 19-points on the board. A second points deduction (this season) would all but solidify their fate to the Championship.

Below is my prediction on the starting eleven for the away side, in a 4-4-2 formation. The dogmatic approach will see a very low block incorporated, as survival and luck will be the tactic of the day.

GK – James Trafford

RB – Jóhann Berg Guðmundsson

RCB – Dara O’Shea

LCB – Maxime Estève

LB – Vitinho

CDM – Sander Berge

CM – Aaron Ramsey

RW – Josh Brownhill

CF – Lyle Foster

CF – David Datro Fofana

LW – Wilson Odobert

The Liverpool Availability

In terms of injures, Mohamed Salah, Dominik Szoboszlai, Stefan Bajčetić, and Kostas Tsimikas, are all currently short-term absentees that should all return in the next two weeks. Thiago Alcântara is once again injured, after sustaining a muscle injury on Sunday. Joël Matip has sustained a season ending ACL injury, one that may have seen him play his last game for the club. Wataru Endō is now back from his Asia Cup duties (with Japan), therefore, will come straight back into the match day squad. Conor Bradley should be back with the group, following compassionate leave. Ibrahima Konaté is suspended for one game, after his two cautions against Arsenal saw him sent off.

Regarding recent form, Liverpool will be approaching this game after the 3-1 defeat at Arsenal last Sunday. Prior to that loss, a strong 4-1 win was recorded at Anfield, as Chelsea were pummelled throughout. Progression to the EFL Cup final was secured after a 1-1 draw away to Fulham (3-2 aggregate win), after a 5-2 win against Norwich, as the FA Cup 5th round was safely navigated. After 23-games played, the reds have amassed a 51-point total, as they currently sit top of the Premier League.

Below is my prediction on the starting eleven for the home side, where the captain of Japan will come straight back into the side.

GK – Alisson Becker

RB – Trent Alexander Arnold

RCB – Jarell Quansah

LCB – Virgil van Dijk (c)

LB – Joe Gomez

RCM – Alexis Mac Allister

CDM – Wataru Endō

LCM – Curtis Jones

RW – Diogo Jota

CF – Darwin Núñez

LW – Luis Díaz

https://twitter.com/anfieldindex/status/1755503006500450594?s=46&t=rxgukmqdoXc4muVFLSx2EQ

How Will This Contest Play Out

I believe the continuing noise that is being generated (in a post Jürgen Klopp resignation world), will see Anfield erupt into appreciation and song, for their beloved yet departing manager. After a hellacious fixture schedule and subsequent away visit to Arsenal, a poor result and staggered performance was almost inevitable last weekend. This week, after a good amount of rest, training, and preparation, I cannot see how Vincent Kompany gets out of Merseyside without a hammering, despite his wants for Manchester City and probably his own club, Burnley.

Player to watch – Alexis Mac Allister

Score Prediction;

Liverpool 4 – 1 Burnley

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