Prediction: Leicester vs Liverpool

Having increased their lead at the Premier League summit to three points, Leicester City head into the Liverpool clash determined to prove they should now be regarded genuine title contenders. The Reds, on the other hand, could be effectively out of the top 4 chase if they fail to win at King Power Stadium and that should be enough incentive to give their best on Tuesday evening.

Leicester

Not too many people believed that Leicester City would be able to sustain a serious title challenge, but the Foxed not only remained in the title hunt but were able to create a three-point cushion at the Premier League summit with 15 games to go. And with neither Arsenal nor Manchester City too impressive at the moment, the reality is that one of England’s oldest clubs could now win their first ever top flight title. Claudio Ranieri’s star player Riyad Mahrez was to blame for missing a couple of penalty kicks that cost the Foxes several valuable points, but having managed 13 goals and 8 assists so far this season, the Algerian cannot exactly be criticised for latest under-par performances. And while himself and Jamie Vardy have been thoroughly impressive this season, it is team’s character that has served them really well this term, as Leicester City seem to have no problem recovering from disappointing showings that have been quite sparse during the current campaign. Everything considered, we are not prepared to bet against the Foxes winning this game.

Team News

Claudio Ranieri should welcome back Jeffrey Schlupp back from a hamstring problem, meaning the Italian manager could have fully fit squad to select from.

Liverpool

This is proving to be a very difficult season for Liverpool, with new manager Jurgen Klopp struggling to get his ideas across to the squad. His job wasn’t made easier by the serious injury crisis or busy schedule, but rather than looking for excuses, the German coach needs to start finding solutions to the patchy form. The Reds have been far from impressive of late and while they have secured their place in the League Cup final, they were quite fortunate to do so having suffered a 1-0 defeat in the return leg against Stoke, only to win the tie on penalties. Liverpool have since failed to score in their second successive match as they could only muster a goalless draw in the FA Cup fourth round clash vs West Ham, so this is clearly not the best time for them to be facing the surprise Premier League leaders. With some key men still missing, the Reds could find it hard to get something from the King Power Stadium.

Team News

Jordan Henderson faces a fitness test after suffering an ankle problem, while Daniel Sturridge is not yet ready to return into action.

Martin Skrtel, Philippe Coutinho and Divock Origi are closing in on their return, whilst Danny Ings and Joe Gomez are long-term casualties.

Key Factors to Consider

• Liverpool are unbeaten in last eight meetings with Leicester (W5 D3)
• Both teams scored in two of their last three meetings
• The Reds have failed to score in last two games
• Leicester kept a clean sheet in each of last three home fixtures
• The Foxes conceded just once in last five Premiership matches

Conclusion

Leicester City have proved time and again that they are not bothered by the increased expectations and having hammered very good Stoke City side last time out, we are backing them to cement the first place in the standings with a win over struggling Liverpool, who have really missed the likes of Coutinho and Sturridge over the last few weeks.

Verdict: Leicester Draw no bet

Best Odds: 4/5

Bookmaker: William Hill