Gary Neville has shared his prediction for the highly anticipated Premier League clash between Liverpool and Chelsea at Anfield. Both teams have made impressive starts to the season, with Liverpool leading the league and Chelsea close behind.
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Liverpool, now managed by Arne Slot, have won six of their first seven matches under their new boss. Their only slip-up was a shock home defeat to Nottingham Forest in mid-September.
Despite doubts about the strength of their early opponents, Neville has praised Liverpool’s consistency, noting their wins over Manchester United, West Ham, and Brentford. Currently, they sit one point ahead of Manchester City and Arsenal and four points above Chelsea.
Chelsea, managed by Enzo Maresca, have been one of the most exciting teams this season, bouncing back from an opening-day defeat to Manchester City with a six-game unbeaten run. The Blues have impressed with dynamic performances, such as their 6-0 victory against Wolves and a 4-0 win over Brighton.
However, despite Chelsea’s form, Neville predicts a tough afternoon for them at Anfield, citing Liverpool’s experience and home advantage as key factors. On The Overlap, Neville predicted a 3-1 victory for Liverpool, emphasizing that “Liverpool can be a humbling place,” especially for a relatively young Chelsea side.
Neville isn’t alone in his assessment. Alan Shearer, another Premier League legend, believes Chelsea would be content with a draw at Anfield. While Liverpool have had injuries to key players like Alisson and may miss midfielders Alexis Mac Allister and Waturo Endo, Shearer highlights that the midfield battle will be crucial.
Players like Ryan Gravenberch, Alexis Mac Allister, and Dominik Szoboszlai have been instrumental in Liverpool’s strong start, and Shearer expects them to dominate against Chelsea’s midfield.
Shearer also pointed out that the international break could play a role in this game, as players return to their clubs possibly fatigued or unfit to start. Nevertheless, he believes if Liverpool’s midfield trio are ready, they will come out on top in the key battles on the pitch.
Historically, Liverpool have the upper hand in this fixture, having thumped Chelsea 4-1 in their last meeting at Anfield. The reverse fixture at Stamford Bridge ended in a 1-1 draw.
Liverpool will be hoping to repeat last season’s success, although they face the possibility of being without important players like Mac Allister, Waturo Endo, and Kostas Tsimikas.
Chelsea, meanwhile, are missing suspended defenders Wesley Fofana and Marc Cucurella, which could make defending against Liverpool’s attack even more challenging.
As both teams prepare for the clash, Neville and Shearer agree that Liverpool’s form and Anfield’s atmosphere will make it a tough test for Chelsea. If Liverpool’s midfield controls the game, they are well-positioned to secure another crucial victory in their title race.
