Liverpool and Chelsea are set to lock horns in a highly anticipated Premier League clash at Anfield this weekend, with both teams vying to strengthen their positions in the league. Only four points separate Liverpool, who lead the table, and a rejuvenated Chelsea side that is building momentum under manager Enzo Maresca
However, Liverpool’s title credentials will be put to the test, with first-choice goalkeeper Alisson Becker sidelined due to a hamstring injury. The Brazilian is expected to be out until late November, missing crucial fixtures including the upcoming encounters against Chelsea, Arsenal, Brighton, and Aston Villa in the Premier League, as well as pivotal Champions League matches against RB Leipzig and Bayer Leverkusen. Backup goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher will step into the starting lineup, having previously impressed in key matches against the Blues.
On a positive note for Liverpool, key players Mohamed Salah and Virgil van Dijk returned from international duty injury-free. Alexis Mac Allister, who picked up a knock in the recent win over Crystal Palace, was also fit enough to feature in Argentina’s 6-0 win over Bolivia, offering further encouragement for Arne Slot’s side.
Chelsea, meanwhile, will be without defensive mainstays Marc Cucurella and Wesley Fofana, both suspended after accumulating five yellow cards this season. Tosin Adarabioyo is expected to replace Fofana in the heart of the defence, while promising Portuguese left-back Renato Veiga could slot in for Cucurella. With Reece James nearing a return from injury, Maresca may opt to hold him back from such a high-stakes match.
Predicted Liverpool Lineup (4-2-3-1):
– Kelleher;
– Alexander-Arnold, Konate, van Dijk, Robertson;
– Mac Allister, Gravenberch;
– Salah, Szoboszlai, Diaz;
– Jota.
Predicted Chelsea Lineup (4-2-3-1):
– Sanchez;
– Gusto, Adarabioyo, Colwill, Veiga;
– Caicedo, Fernandez;
– Madueke, Palmer, Sancho;
– Jackson.
Both teams have injury concerns, but Liverpool will be particularly tested by Alisson’s absence. The match promises to be an intense showdown as the title race heats up.
