While Liverpool FC are riding high on their 5-4 win against Norwich City, West Ham would definitely taken note of their defensive frailties, and try to exploit them in those areas.
The Hammers themselves will be quite confident having already comprehensively beaten Liverpool FC 2-0 in their last meeting earlier this month. However, Hammers’ manager Slaven Bilic would be mindful of the fact that the Reds can demolish even the best of teams on their day, and would set his defence up strongly at Anfield.
Lineups
Liverpool FC
Probable Starting XI (4-3-3): Mignolet; Smith, Lovren, Caulker, Randall; Allen, Stweart, Brannagan; João Teixeira, Benteke, Ibe.
West Ham United
Probable Starting XI (4-3-3): Adrian; Creswell, Ogbonna, Collins, Tomkins; Noble, Song, Kouyate; Payet, Valencia, Antonio.
Key Facts
- Liverpool FC have conceded nine goals in their last five matches in all competitions.
- West Ham United on the other hand, have scored nine in their last five matches in all competitions.
- West Ham (68) have completed more long balls away from home than Liverpool FC (66) have done at their own ground.
- Last time the two sides met, earlier this month, West Ham ran away 2-0 winners in spite of Liverpool FC playing 235 more short passes than them.
Prediction
Liverpool FC 2-2 West Ham United
The 5-4 victory over Norwich City might have given Liverpool FC the three points, but they have stark defensive problems which the Hammers can exploit to take the fixture to Upton Park, where they recently beat the Reds 2-0. We could have another goal-fest at hands, with both the sides having potent attacking players.
Odds (Paddy Power)
Liverpool FC: 11/10
Draw: 12/5
West Ham United: 13/5