Liverpool vs West Ham: Preview, Team News, Likely Line-Ups, Key Man & Predicted Score

Liverpool entertain West Ham at Anfield on Saturday afternoon looking to make it back-to-back victories within the space of four days.

The Reds head into the game sitting fourth in the Premier League table following Wednesday’s 5-1 demolition of Norwich City, and will hope to close the gap on leaders Arsenal with another win tomorrow.

Luis Suarez was once again the hero in midweek, scoring a sensational four goals and capped a virtuoso performance by setting up Raheem Sterling for the fifth, and the Uruguayan will be looking to break his duck against the Hammers this weekend.

Sam Allardyce’s men arrive on Merseyside following a disappointing 1-0 defeat to Crystal Palace on Tuesday night which has left them hovering dangerously above the relegation zone in 17th place.

The Londoners haven’t scored a single goal in five of their previous seven away games this season and haven’t beaten Liverpool at Anfield since 1963, so the home side should be quietly confident of picking up another three points on Saturday.

Team News

Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers will once again have to make-do without the services of striker Daniel Sturridge – who continues to nurse an ankle injury that’s likely to see him sidelined for another seven weeks.

Sturridge’s absence means Luis Suarez will continue to lead the line with Philippe Coutinho likely to support him in attack. Lucas Leiva could return to the starting line-up in place of Joe Allen in midfield, while Luis Alberto is also pushing for a rare start.

Jose Enrique remains out with a knee injury so Jon Flanagan is expected to continue to deputise at left-back.

West Ham will be without midfielder Raven Morrison after he picked up his fifth yellow card of the season last time out and is therefore suspended. Jose Cole is favourite to step in.

Striker Andy Carroll returned to light training this week after recovering from a long-term foot problem, but he’s not considered fit enough to be in contention this weekend.

Defender Winston Reid remains sidelined with an ankle injury, while George McCartney could come in at left-back.

Likely Line-Ups

Key Man

Luis Suarez: The Uruguayan has been in scintillating form in recent weeks and the visitors will be desperate to try and keep him quiet.

Predicted Score

Liverpool 3-0 West Ham: The Reds look formidable at home and with Suarez on fire, we can only see a comfortable Liverpool win here.

What would be your team for the game and what’s your predicted score? Share your views below.