Liverpool vs Stoke: Team News, Likely Line-up & Predicted Score

Liverpool welcome Tony Pulis’ Stoke City to Anfield on Saturday looking to get back to winning ways in the Premier League following a 3-0 defeat to Man City last time out.

Kenny Dalglish’s men did exact revenge for that league defeat by beating City 1-0 at the Etihad in their Carling Cup first leg in midweek, so should go in to this game full of confidence. Stoke are never an easy prospect, and Pulis will have his side well organised and as difficult to beat as ever.

Liverpool Team News

Jay Spearing is a major doubt for Liverpool after picking up a hamstring strain against City. If he misses out, Charlie Adam should come back into the side in central midfield.

Jose Enrique should also return to the starting eleven having been left out on Wednesday, with Johnson returning to his usual right back berth. Obviously the home side will continue without striker Luis Suarez, who is three games into his eight-game ban.

Steven Gerrard is expected to start his first league game following his return from injury, with Kenny Dalglish likely to keep changes to a minimum following the superb performance against City in midweek.

Likely Line-up

Predicted Score

As usual Stoke will look to set pieces as their best chance of causing Liverpool problems. The Reds defence have been solid for the majority of the season, so will be confident of keeping Crouch et al at bay. The return of Gerrard should provide enough impetus for Liverpool to be able to sneak this one, I’m going for a 1-0 home win in a tight game.