After an impressive draw at Dortmund, Klopp’s men play host to Stoke City in their premiere league clash on Sunday. Liverpool were impressive at Westfalenstadion especially at the back and they will need to play a similar game against Stoke City. The Reds are currently placed 9th in the league standings and with 8 games remaining, a European spot is the top priority for Jurgen Klopp. Stoke City are 8th in the league and currently two points ahead of Liverpool. A win would help Klopp’s men to switch places with their opponents.
Form guide
Liverpool – WWWLD
Liverpool were cruising in their league form with impressive wins against Man City and Aston Villa before Southampton ruined their party by defeating the Reds in spite of a two-goal lead. However, Liverpool played well against Tottenham and managed to get a point against the number two side in the league. Klopp has shown faith in his side in his recent press conferences and is optimistic ahead of this game.
Stoke City – WDLWD
Stoke City have had a mix run of form in their last five league games and they managed eight points from their last five games. They were denied three points at Britannia by Swansea after their impressive win at Watford. Mark Bowen has clearly mentioned the intentions of his team ahead of this game and was also quoted saying that his side will manage a win. However, the last time Stoke won at Anfield was way back in 1959.
Tactics
Jurgen Klopp has been consistent with his tactics of pressing throughout the season and he is trying to establish the 4-2-3-1 for Liverpool. Against Stoke, he will try and use the attacking combo of Coutinho and Firmino and will rely more on their services for the attacks. Stoke city have shown vulnerabilities to attacks from the sides and Klopp will try to exploit them. Also, Stoke are known to make quick counter attacks on the opponents which makes gegenpressing an option for Klopp. Milner and Can will be crucial in stopping the counter attacks.
Mark Hughes prefers to attack on the breaks and in holding the possession. The left wing has been a problem defensively for Liverpool and Hughes is aware of this weakness. Shaqiri and Afellay will be the key men for Hughes to provide the width and attacking flair. Arnautovic is suffering from a knee injury and is doubtful for the game. Under these circumstances, Stoke will heavily rely on the wings.
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