Liverpool’s Trip to Bournemouth: Jan Molby Breaks Down the Challenge
In the latest Molby on the Spot podcast from Anfield Index, Jan Molby offered a grounded yet optimistic outlook ahead of Liverpool’s Premier League clash with Bournemouth. With the Reds heading to the south coast this evening, Molby highlighted what makes Andoni Iraola’s team a uniquely challenging, yet potentially favourable, opponent for Arne Slot’s men.
“You know they’re going to pressure, harass all over the pitch, a load of energy,” said Molby, underlining Bournemouth’s high-pressing approach. Yet, despite their work ethic, he pinpointed one crucial weakness: their diminished threat in front of goal. “Semenyo’s gone… Tavernier is going to be missing out with an injury… so where is that goal threat?”
From Molby’s perspective, Bournemouth’s expansive style may actually suit Liverpool. “We talk about the likes of teams that we like to play against at the moment… Bournemouth will certainly do that,” he explained, referring to their openness and willingness to play end-to-end football.
Liverpool’s Unpredictability Still a Concern
Despite Bournemouth’s current form, Molby remained measured in his predictions. “They are technically bang out of form,” he stated, citing one win in their last 14 matches. However, he stressed that form alone isn’t a guarantee of Liverpool dominance. “It’s always a tricky game because they never give up and they play with a lot of risk.”
Molby and podcast host Trev Downey also touched on Liverpool’s own inconsistency this season. “We don’t know what version of us is going to show up,” Downey admitted. Molby agreed, noting the difficulty in forecasting performances, both individually and collectively. Even with signs of promise, such as Verts and Ekit showing flashes of connection in midweek, nothing feels settled.
On selection, Molby wasn’t surprised by certain decisions in the previous game. “Some people were surprised that Mo Salah was straight back into the starting 11… I wasn’t because of the injuries and the drop-off in form for Cody.”
Bournemouth’s Young Talent Still a Factor
Molby showed clear respect for the development model at Bournemouth, especially their ability to unearth emerging talent. “Kroupi, the young French boy they got from Lorient… he looks a player,” said Molby. He also singled out right-back Jiménez, saying, “I think he’s done really well.”
But Molby suggested Bournemouth’s lack of experience and proven quality may limit their ability to hurt Liverpool over 90 minutes. “There’s always a couple of players where you go, ‘Wow, they’re very, very good’… but whether it’s enough on the day, I doubt it.”
Prediction and Tactical Control
In closing, Molby stressed that Liverpool must dominate possession and control the rhythm of the match. “What we need to do really is obviously be able to match their energy… but control the game, have them running around chasing the ball.”
Molby’s score prediction: AFC Bournemouth 1-3 Liverpool
