Liverpool vs West Brom Preview, Team News, Likely Line-Ups, Key Man + Prediction

Liverpool will look to bounce back from a midweek disappointment in Europe when they entertain West Brom at Anfield on Saturday afternoon.

The Reds poor early-season form continued with a 1-0 loss away at Basel in the Champions League on Wednesday which sees them lying third in Group C after two fixtures.

That result came after a 1-1 draw against Mersey rivals Everton last weekend when the hosts let two vital points slip away thanks to a last gasp equaliser from Phil Jagielka, which leaves the club languishing down in 14th place in the table.

Brendan Rodgers men haven’t won a Premier League game since beating Tottenham 3-0 back on the 31st August so they will be desperate to head into the international break on a positive note.

However, West Brom arrive at Anfield in excellent form having won their last three games in all competitions which includes victories over Hull, Tottenham and Burnley, so they won’t be coming to make up the numbers this weekend.

Team news

Liverpool will give Daniel Sturridge every chance to prove his fitness after the striker missed the last six games with a thigh injury. However, even if he’s passed fit, Rodgers may only keep him on the bench as he’s unlikely to take any risks.

Glen Johnson is still out with a thigh injury and Jon Flanagan won’t be back until the New Year so Javier Manquillo will continue at right-back.

Joe Allen should return from a knee injury after the international break but this game comes too soon so he joins Emre Can and Mamadou Sakho on the sidelines.

West Brom will be without Silvestre Varela with the winger possibly needing a hernia operation.

Strikers Brown Ideye (ankle) and Victor Anichebe (groin) are also unavailable so Berahino will continue up front.

Likely Line-ups

Key Man

Mario Balotelli: The Italian has been in poor form of late and Rodgers has demanded more from his £16m signing. With Sturridge unlikely to start, the onus will be on Balotelli to be the focal point up front and get himself among the goals.

Predicted Score

Liverpool 2-1 West Brom: The Reds haven’t hit top form yet and the Baggies have been impressive in recent weeks, but I think Liverpool will have enough to edge this one.

What team do you think Rodgers should put out and whats your predicted score?