Liverpool vs Chelsea preview | Latest team news | Expected line-up’s | Prediction

Liverpool will be looking to cement their place at the top of the Premier League table with a win over Chelsea at Anfield this afternoon.

The Reds currently sit two points clear of Manchester City ahead of their clash with Crystal Palace in today’s 14.05pm kick-off – although the defending champions do hold a game in hand.

Pep Guardiola’s men can return to the summit with a win over the Eagles but Liverpool will be ready to take advantage of any slip-up by City at Selhurst Park when they welcome Chelsea to Anfield at 16.30pm.

The Blues head to Merseyside desperate for points too as they’re in a fierce battle with Tottenham, Manchester United and Arsenal for a place in the top four so Maurizio Sarri will be keen to take away something from Anfield today.

Team news

Liverpool welcome Andrew Robertson back into the squad after he missed the Champions League win over Porto in midweek due to suspension while Adam Lallana could return to the squad after a minor muscle problem.

Joel Matip and Georginio Wijnaldum are pushing for recalls after being rested on Tuesday night but Roberto Fimrino will be hoping to lead the line up front once again after an excellent performance in midweek.

Chelsea have no fresh injury worries to contend with and Sarri is expected to recall his big-guns after resting several players for the Europa League win at Slavia Prague on Thursday.

David Luiz, Emerson, N’Golo Kante, Callum Hudson-Odoi and Gonzalo Higuain are all in-line for recalls while Eden Hazard is certain to come back into the side.

Expected line-ups

Predicted score

Liverpool 2-1 Chelsea: The visitors have an excellent recent record at Anfield as they haven’t lost any of their last six visits to the stadium and they’ve only lost twice to Liverpool in their last 16 meetings in all competitions.

However, Liverpool have been in formidable form this season, especially at home, so they’ll be confident of taking the three points this afternoon. We think Liverpool will do just enough to edge it 2-1.