As the Premier League narrative unfolds, a captivating showdown is on the horizon, pitting the table-topping Liverpool against a resurgent Chelsea side that is finding its rhythm after a challenging start to the season. Liverpool, currently flying high at the summit of the Premier League table, exudes the confidence of title contenders, while Chelsea, despite languishing in 9th place, has ignited hope with a string of impressive victories. The upcoming clash at Stamford Bridge serves as a stage for two footballing giants with contrasting trajectories, as Liverpool seeks to fortify its grip on the title race, while Chelsea aims to solidify its European aspirations.
Rewind to the early chapters of the season, and we find that the fixture between Liverpool and Chelsea, at Chelsea’s home ground, set the tone for what promises to be a season of intense battles. In a pulsating encounter that marked both teams’ inaugural fixture of the campaign, the clash ended with honors even at 1-1. As the Anfield Reds and the Blues from Stamford Bridge renew their rivalry, memories of that exciting draw add an extra layer of anticipation to this upcoming clash. The landscape has shifted since their initial meeting, with Liverpool establishing themselves as the team to beat, while Chelsea’s resurgence injects an element of unpredictability into this high-stakes encounter.
Team News:
Alexis Mac Allister has been deemed match-fit, despite missing Liverpool’s FA Cup thrashing of Norwich. Liverpool are still without long-term absentees Thiago Alcantara (although he has returned to training), Kostas Tsimikas, Wataru Endo and centre-back Joel Matip. Crucially, they’ll also be without Mohamed Salah after he sustained an injury with Egypt during the African Cup of Nations.
Chelsea are without the perpetually injured Reece James but Malo Gusto is back in contention. Wesley Fofana remains sidelined as well as goalkeeper Robert Sanchez. Defender Levi Colwill has been ruled out after sustaining an injury warming up before Friday’s FA Cup clash against Aston Villa.
Key Players:
Liverpool: Darwin Nuñez
Darwin Nuñez is one of the most confusing footballers in the world. He seems to be world-class in almost all attributes of the game apart from, well, finishing. For a striker, poor finishing is a problem but Nuñez does his best to compensate for it in other areas. He is a workhorse, has fantastic link-up and his movement is incredible. In 2024, his finishing is improving and he has hit a fine vein of form. He has three goals and three assists this calendar year alone and will be looking to further that run against Chelsea. With no Mohamed Salah, Nuñez will be the focal point and with Trent Alexander-Arnold not having Salah down the channel, he’ll be looking to cross the ball in early to the nifty and ever-hustling and bustling Nuñez. Expect him to get in front of the goal many times, and maybe even score one too…!
Chelsea: Enzo Fernandez
For Chelsea, the emergence of Enzo Fernandez has been a beacon of hope during a transitional period. The Argentine midfielder’s creative vision, precise passing, and ability to control the tempo of the game have played a crucial role in Chelsea’s recent resurgence. Fernandez’s presence in the midfield has added a layer of stability and flair, making him a linchpin in Pochettino’s tactical plans. Against Liverpool at Anfield, Chelsea will need a metronome to control the tempo and that man is Fernandez.
As Chelsea look to climb the league and solidify their position as European hopefuls, Fernandez’s performances will be instrumental in steering the Blues towards success. Keep an eye on this rising star as he navigates the challenges posed by Liverpool’s formidable midfield.
Jurgen Klopp has an excellent record against Mauricio Pochettino. The two managers have clashed 12 times, with Poch just winning once and Klopp winning six times.
- Unbelievably, each of the previous seven meetings between Liverpool and Chelsea in all competitions has finished level (including two domestic cup finals in 2022 which went to penalties). It is the longest run of consecutive draws between two top-flight clubs in English football history.
- Liverpool have lost just one of their previous 52 Premier League games at Anfield
- Chelsea have won 18 Premier League games against teams starting the day top of the table, more than any other side in the competition’s history.
Keep up with all the latest Liverpool and Chelsea scores and news on the 365Scores website!
Liverpool are the clear favourites on bet365 at 11/20. Chelsea, the underdogs, are priced at 17/4 on bet365.
By Nicky Helfgott / @NickyH3lfgott on Twitter
