Brendan Rodgers declared after the 2-0 defeat at the Emirates that Liverpool must now “play catch-up” to Arsenal, and three points against lowly Fulham this Saturday would be a good start.
Arsenal vs Liverpool
Saturday, 9th November 2013; 3pm kick-off
Premier League
Anfield
Heads started to hang when Arsenal outclassed the Reds in North London last Saturday evening.
It was only Liverpool’s second defeat of the season, but a result that brought any fans hoping the Reds were in a title race crashing back down to earth.
This weekend’s game at Anfield is the perfect opportunity for Rodgers’ men to respond and remain “in the conversation” towards the top of the Premier League table.
The opposition
Craven Cottage is a fairly miserable place at the moment with Fulham sitting just two places above the relegation zone and Martin Jol is just 5/6 to be the next Premier League manager to be sacked.
Fulham have lost their last three games in all competitions, including an embarrassment in the League Cup, going out to Leicester City 4-3 at the back end of October.
Their defence has leaked in 15 goals already this season in 10 games – Luis Suarez and Daniel Sturridge will feel confident of inflicting further damage on that record in this final match before the international break.
The Cottagers are without Sascha Riether, who’s stamp on Manchester United’s Adnan Januzaj was retrospectively punished with a three-match-ban by the F.A.
However, they do welcome back captain Brede Hangeland from injury and are hopeful Bryan Ruiz will be fit to play, despite recent back trouble.
Last season in this fixture Liverpool swept aside the West Londoners with a comprehensive 4-0 victory thanks to goals from Martin Skrtel, Steven Gerrard, Stewart Downing and Suarez.
It’s 9/1 for history to repeat itself with a 4-0 win this time round.
Team news
Liverpool welcome back Glen Johnson after a jaw infection kept him out of last Saturday’s game against Arsenal. Jon Flanagan will drop to the bench.
Jose Enrique could also return at left-wing-back after injury and under-par performances from Aly Cissokho of late.
Philippe Coutinho could start after coming on as a second half substitute against the Gunners.
Predicted Liverpool XI vs Fulham 8.11.2013 (as a 3-4-1-2)
Let us know your predicted line-up in the comments below, or on Twitter
@thisisanfield .
Top Betting Tip
Steven Gerrard is looking for Premier League goal number 101 before the domestic season breaks for another international break. It’s 2/1 for Gerrard to score anytime and Liverpool to win.
TV coverage
Match highlights are on BBC One’s Match of the Day from 10.50pm.
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