Prediction: Liverpool vs Swansea

Verdict: Both teams to score – No

Best Odds: 10/11

Bookmaker: William Hill

The curtain raises on the Premier League’s Saturday match programme with an early afternoon match at Anfield. The Reds are hoping to extend their unbeaten run in the league against the side who haven’t recorded a draw in their last nine matches.

Liverpool

Jurgen Klopp used the midweek FA Cup replay action to shuffle his deck, give a couple of fringe players the chance to shine and at the same time – and most importantly – have a full check on the fitness of his first-team star performer Philippe Coutinho. The talisman Brazilian returned to action following his lengthy spell on the sidelines and even played a part in Liverpool’s 1-1 draw at the Old Trafford, so Jurgen Klopp expects that his playmaker will be fit to start the game against Swansea. Midweek FA Cup rematch against Plymouth brought a rare goal from want-away midfielder Lucas Leiva, who will have been happy to help his team bounce back from the frustrating stalemate against Manchester United. Jurgen Klopp was angry after the game and there is nothing better to lift his spirits up then a win against the struggling Swans.

Team News

Nathaniel Clyne’s abdominal injury is likely to give young Alexander Arnold another chance to shine for Liverpool at the right-back. Joel Matip is another defender who is missing, as he remains out due to the eligibility row.

Danny Ings, Marko Grujic and Adam Bogdan are also ruled out through injury, whereas Sadio Mane is at the Africa Cup of Nations.

Swansea

Last couple of weeks have been rather frustrating ones for Paul Clement and his side. The Swans have not lost any of their last nine matches, but there is little reason to feel optimistic about the record as six of those nine were defeats. Swansea are currently rock-bottom side in the Premier League table and they are in desperate need of points. Having in mind that they are locking horns with in-form Liverpool, their search for points will be better suited elsewhere. The Liberty Stadium outfit have gone through a lot of problems this season, but efficiency remains arguably the biggest one. Only two goals scored in last six matches speak volumes of their striking ineptitude and Paul Clement will have to invest in attacking reinforcements this winter. Defender Martin Olsson and midfielder Tom Carrol are welcome additions to the squad, but are far from sufficient to help Swans get out of the gutter.

Team News

Jefferson Montero is having some hamstring problems and is a definite absentee, together with Neil Taylor who fractured his cheekbone.

Liuciano Narsingh is suffering from a calf strain, whereas there is a possibility that Modou Barrow will shake off his knock in time for the Saturday’s encounter.

Key Factors to Consider

• Liverpool lost only one of their 10 matches in all competitions
• The Reds won 9 of their 12 home games, losing none in the process
• Swansea have either lost or won their last 9 matches
• The Swans failed to score in 6 of their last nine games across the competitions
• Liberty Stadium outfit collected only 15 points after 21 rounds

Conclusion

Liverpool are considered firm favourites to grab a win on Saturday and continue their push towards the top of the standings. Jurgen Klopp’s men are happy to welcome their key midfielder Coutinho and will be looking to make a clear statement following hteir disappointing draw at Old Trafford. Given the Swans’ poor scoring record, there is greater value in betting on goals instead on Liverpool to win, so do have that in mind.

Verdict: Both teams to score – No

Best Odds: 10/11

Bookmaker: William Hill