Liverpool are set to face Chelsea on 20th October at Anfield

The Premier League returns to Anfield after the International Break when Liverpool host Chelsea on matchday Eight on Sunday, October 20th. The Reds have already made one of their best start to the season, thanks to a strong start under new coach Arne Slot, who has led Liverpool to victory in 9 out of 10 games this season, the team is thriving. Ryan Gravenberch has hit top form, while Cody Gakpo and Diogo Jota have provided the crucial support needed to maintain their momentum.

The last time Liverpool met Chelsea was at Wembley Stadium, where the Reds secured a 1-0 victory to lift the EFL Cup for a record 10th time. Now, the two sides are set to meet again, with Chelsea boasting the best squad depth in the Premier League this season. It promises to be a tough challenge for Liverpool, as they look to overcome a well-equipped Blues side.

The Reds last travelled to Selhurst Park against Crystal Palace where they won 1-0 thanks to an early-minute finish from Diogo Jota. The Merseyside giants dominated that game and showed brilliant possessive play but had a major setback as Main Goalkeeper Alisson was out injured and subbed out in the 79th minute with Vítězslav Jaroš as Caoimhin Kelleher was out with illness.

Team News

Liverpool

Liverpool’s worst fears regarding Alisson were confirmed immediately after his withdrawal against Crystal Palace, with the Brazilian now set to be out until after the November international break. In his absence, Caoimhin Kelleher will step in, having missed the win at Selhurst Park due to illness.

Alisson joins Harvey Elliott, sidelined with a foot fracture, while there is still no update on Federico Chiesa’s condition. However, Chiesa was unlikely to start over Mohamed Salah, who returned early from international duty.

In his press conference, Arne Slot acknowledged that Liverpool were dealing with “some issues” following the international break. As a result, it wouldn’t be surprising if some South American players were rested, with Curtis Jones and Cody Gakpo potentially stepping in for Alexis Mac Allister and Luis Diaz.

Predicted Lineup XI (4-2-3-1) : Kelleher; Alexander-Arnold, Konate, Van Dijk, Robertson; Jones, Gravenberch; Salah, Szoboszlai, Gakpo; Jota

Chelsea

While James Ward-Prowse’s bizarre red card grabbed the headlines in Chelsea’s clash with Forest, the Blues face their own suspension concerns ahead of the Anfield showdown. Both Wesley Fofana and Marc Cucurella picked up their fifth yellow cards of the season, ruling them out of the Liverpool match.

Cucurella’s absence could see Renato Veiga tasked with the daunting job of containing Mohamed Salah, while Axel Disasi and Tosin Adarabioyo will compete to replace Fofana at the heart of Chelsea’s defence.

On a positive note, Reece James, who has been sidelined with a hamstring injury since pre-season, is back in training and has been passed fit. Additionally, Danish goalkeeper Filip Jorgensen appears ready for action despite a brief injury scare during the international break.

Predicted Lineup XI (4-2-3-1) : Sanchez; Gusto, Disasi, Colwill, Veiga; Caicedo, Fernandez; Madueke, Palmer, Sancho; Jackson

Match Deciding Duel

Cole Palmer vs Van Dijk

The Duel between Cole Palmer and Virgil van Dijk could be key to the game’s outcome. Palmer’s quick feet, creativity, and ability to find space make him a dangerous attacking threat, particularly in one-on-one situations. However, van Dijk’s composure, positioning, and physical presence could make it difficult for Palmer to find the freedom he needs to influence the game. Van Dijk will likely focus on closing down Palmer’s space early, using his experience to stop the young star’s impact and prevent him from driving at the Liverpool defence.

The Englishman has already 11 goal contribution in just 7 matches, He looks to be wrecking defences and having almost more progressive carry than any other player. The absurdly annoying Chelsea’s squad depth proves to be a major factor in deciding the outcome of the game.

Prediction

Liverpool 2 – 2 Chelsea

This match is set to be a high-scoring affair, with both Liverpool and Chelsea boasting dynamic attacking forces, second only to Manchester City in offensive firepower. However, it seems poised to end in a draw. Liverpool currently have the strongest defensive record in the league, and their ability to stifle opposition attacks has been impressive. On the other hand, Chelsea’s exceptional squad depth gives them the tools to challenge even at Anfield, with their ability to rotate and maintain quality across the pitch proving to be an advantage. Expect a tight, intense battle.

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The Anfield crowd will undoubtedly be a tough nut to please, especially with the high expectations surrounding this match. But with both teams pushing their limits, it promises to be a thrilling encounter. As always, the passionate supporters will back their team with full force, creating an electric atmosphere. YNWA!