Liverpool will look to build on their good start to 2014 with another vital three points at Stoke—but Mark Hughes’ men won’t make it easy for the Reds.
Sunday, 12th January 2014; 4.10pm kick-off
Premier League
Britannia Stadium
Liverpool’s victory over Hull City on New Year’s Day was described as “the best of the season” by Brendan Rodgers, bouncing back from successive defeats at Manchester City and Chelsea over Christmas.
After beating Oldham Athletic 2-0 in the FA Cup last Sunday, the Reds will be hoping their good form continues and maximum points are gained at the Britannia Stadium on Sunday.
The opposition
Mark Hughes’ Stoke side are currently up in 12th place in the Premier League, having drawn 1-1 with Everton in their last match.
However, an away trip to White Hart Lane at the back end of December saw them crumble to a 3-0 defeat against Tottenham.
The Potters have already taken points off Manchester City this season too, and beat Chelsea thanks to an Oussama Assaidi goal, who is ineligable for this encounter as he can’t play against his parent club.
Team news
Liverpool are without defender Daniel Agger, who picked up a knee injury against Oldham last Sunday. The Danish international could be sidelined for up to six weeks.
Mamadou Sakho is expected to return from injury for the trip to Stoke, and should partner Martin Skrtel in central defence—though Kolo Toure is on standby if Sakho doesn’t pass late fitness tests.
The Reds could also welcome back Daniel Sturridge from an ankle injury sustained in November, although whether he will play from the start remains to be seen.
Luis Suarez is 5/2 to be the first goalscorer of the game.
Jose Enrique and Jon Flanagan remain sidelined for Liverpool, so Aly Cissokho may continue at left-back.
Betting tip
Steven Gerrard to score and Liverpool to win is a tasty 4/1 and you can get a free £25 bet with William Hill here.
TV coverage
The match is live on Sky Sports 1 in the UK, and highlights on Match of the Day on BBC One at 10.25pm.
petikan dari Liverpool FC, This is Anfield, Teamtalk
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