Our under-21s have been held to a 1-1 draw with Brighton & Hove Albion in Premier League 2 on Sunday.

Khayon Edwards scored within the thirty second minute of the sport, however the Seagulls discovered a late equaliser courtesy of Freddie Simmonds.

WHAT HAPPENED

Harry Howell floated a harmful ball in direction of Marcus Ifill for the primary probability of the sport, however Josh Robinson bought an awesome contact on the ball to cease him having a straightforward header.

Maldini Kacurri tried to deal with Ifill when he was in on purpose however simply knocked it previous Tommy Setford, Ifill hitting the submit with the web empty.

Salah-Eddine Oulad M’Hand performed an awesome cross for Ismeal Kabia on the precise. He bought there forward of the onrushing goalkeeper, however the cross was simply behind Edwards and Brighton cleared their traces.

There was a primary save for Setford, when Howell shot from 20 yards, but it surely was snug for our goalkeeper.

Brighton got here once more, this time the captain Jamie Mullins getting ahead. He discovered Ifill on the left and his first time cross simply evaded Caylan Vickers.

We took a brief free kick and Nathan Butler-Oyedeji charged down the left. He bought to the byline and fired a shot throughout purpose however Hugo Fisher made a great save.

We then took the lead, Edwards spinning on the penalty spot and planting his effort into the underside nook.

Brighton then attacked down the precise once more; Howell feeding Cameron Peupion, who put a low cross in in direction of the close to submit, however Setford got here out shortly to smother it.

Butler-Oyedeji performed a beautiful chip excessive for Edwards who bought a great shot away but it surely was saved effectively by Fisher, with the flag going up after afterwards on the point of half-time.

Within the second half, Butler-Oyedeji was clear by way of on purpose and tried to chip Fisher however the keeper stood tall to catch it.

Peupion drove ahead and had two photographs blocked. He then bought to the byline and squeezed a shot beneath Setford however the flag was up for a purpose kick earlier than he took the shot.

Setford then made an awesome save to disclaim Howell from a low free-kick, however Brighton bought in once more down the left, this time with Caylan Vickers. Setford snuffed out his cross once more.

Louis Flower bought up for a header and hit the crossbar for Brighton, seeking a late equaliser.

Butler-Oyedeji picked out Robinson with a by way of ball into the field however the latter put the shot simply extensive, with the flag going up after the possibility anyway.

Kabia then bursted ahead down the precise and put a low cross in in direction of Romari Forde, however his flick was blocked effectively by Ed Turns.

However Brighton rating within the 92nd minute, Simmonds heading in from a nook, earlier than Imari Samuels was despatched off for a rash deal with on Max Dowman.

WHAT IT MEANS

We’re seventh in PL2 with 16 factors from our first 9 video games of the season.

WHAT’S NEXT

We’re again at Mangata Pay UK Stadium for a 7pm kick-off in opposition to Sunderland on Monday, December 16.

LINE-UPS

Arsenal XI: Setford, Robinson, Nichols (Forde 46 (Kamara 90)), Kacurri, Monlouis, Gower (Dowman 84), Kabia, Ismail Oulad M’Hand, Edwards, Salah-Eddine Oulad M’Hand, Butler-Oyedeji (C).

Substitutes (not used): Martin Nygaard, Ferdinand.

Brighton XI: Fisher, Albarus, Samuels, Simmonds, Turns, Knight, Peupion, Mullins (C) (Moulton 90), Vickers, Howell (Flower 71), Ifill.

Substitutes (not used): Ferdinand, Penman, Bashir.

Jude Bellingham transformed a penalty and Kylian Mbappé added one other aim earlier than half-time to earn Actual Madrid a 2-0 victory over Getafe on the Bernabéu on Sunday as they moved inside touching distance of LaLiga leaders Barcelona.

Madrid moved to second place on the desk with 33 factors from 14 matches, one level behind rivals Barcelona, who’ve performed a sport extra. Getafe are seventeenth after gathering 13 factors from 15 matches.

Madrid have been awarded a penalty within the thirtieth minute after Getafe right-back Allan Nyom introduced down centre-back Antonio Rudiger within the field because the ball was being delivered from a nook.

Bellingham stepped as much as take the penalty as a substitute of Mbappé, who missed a spot kick in Madrid’s 2-0 defeat at Liverpool within the Champions League on Wednesday, and made no mistake as he knocked the ball straight down the center to simply beat goalkeeper David Soria.

The 21-year-old England midfielder has now netted in three straight league matches.

It didn’t take Mbappé lengthy to double the lead as he struck within the thirty eighth minute, taking a superb ball from Bellingham and whipping it in from outdoors the field to attain his tenth aim of the season throughout all competitions for Actual.

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The France captain, who moved to the Bernabéu from French champions Paris Saint-Germain on a free switch in June, is now additionally Madrid’s joint-top scorer within the league alongside the injured Vinícius Júnior. with eight objectives.

Mbappé regarded vigorous, particularly within the second half, and practically made it 3-0 on three events. The 25-year-old got here closest when he made an excellent run by way of on aim and went round Soria however his effort went simply huge.

Madrid, who spurned a few different probabilities to increase their lead, have been completely dominant and held 70% of the possession in opposition to Getafe.

Getafe rattled the woodwork twice, together with when midfielder John Patrick’s shot beat Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois within the closing minutes of the sport.

Chelsea climbed to 3rd within the Premier League as Aston Villa’s winless run continued at Stamford Bridge in a 3-0 defeat.

A aim inside 5 minutes from Nicolas Jackson set the hosts on track earlier than Enzo Fernandez added a second earlier than half time, the Chelsea captain connecting sweetly with a bouncing ball on the half volley. Victory was sealed late on by a shocking curled end from Cole Palmer, lifting Enzo Maresca’s facet to 3rd and degree on factors with Arsenal as the 2 London golf equipment sustain the chase on leaders Liverpool.

It was one other troublesome outing for Unai Emery’s Villa, who’re struggling to deal with a busy season after a breakthrough qualification for the Champions League. It’s now eight video games and not using a win for the membership in all competitions, leaving them languishing within the backside half of the desk.

Re-live the entire motion from Stamford Bridge in our reside weblog beneath:

We look forward to Sunday’s Premier League recreation at Stamford Bridge with our Chelsea vs Aston Villa prediction and preview. Are the Blues outdoors title contenders?

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Chelsea vs Aston Villa: The Key Insights

• The Opta supercomputer is giving Chelsea a 52% win chance for this conflict.
• Chelsea, nevertheless, are winless of their final three Premier League conferences with Aston Villa.
• Villa have received their final two league video games at Stamford Bridge.

For all of the pre-season speak of a bloated squad and the chaotic state of Chelsea behind the scenes, Enzo Maresca has loved a robust begin as Blues coach.

Chelsea sit in third place within the Premier League heading into Matchday 13, above Arsenal on purpose distinction, and have misplaced simply twice within the Premier League this season.

On Thursday, their second string edged them nearer to development within the UEFA Convention League with a 2-0 win at Heidenheim, and Maresca has used that competitors to offer fringe gamers an opportunity whereas resting the likes of star man Cole Palmer.

However the place Chelsea have come unstuck is when going through fellow ‘large six’ opponents. They’ve misplaced to Manchester Metropolis and Liverpool, whereas drawing in opposition to Manchester United and Arsenal.

Aston Villa don’t fall into the standard ‘large six’, however they completed within the high 4 final season and on Wednesday held European heavyweights Juventus to a 0-0 draw within the Champions League. They have been denied a late winner when Morgan Rogers had a purpose disallowed for a foul on the goalkeeper by Diego Carlos.

However Unai Emery’s workforce are winless of their final 4 Premier League video games (D2 L2). They final went 5 with no win between Could and August 2022, whereas they final did so in the identical season in March/April 2022 (each runs underneath Steven Gerrard). That run of type has seen them drop to eighth, although such is the congested nature of the Premier League, they’re solely three factors behind Chelsea forward of Sunday’s conflict at Stamford Bridge.

After successive attracts, the Blues bounced again by beating Leicester Metropolis 2-1 final week – a consequence that finally led to the top of Steve Cooper’s Foxes tenure.

Nicolas Jackson was closely concerned, scoring one and enjoying a component in Chelsea’s winner, as his header was saved earlier than Enzo Fernandez nodded in on the rebound. 5 of Jackson’s seven Premier League targets this season have put Chelsea 1-0 forward within the match – coming into this weekend’s video games, solely Chris Wooden (six) has scored the opening purpose in additional totally different video games this time period.

Pulling the strings behind Jackson will nearly definitely be Palmer. No participant has created extra possibilities from open play within the Premier League this season than the England worldwide (28). Villa are certainly one of simply three sides Palmer has failed to attain or help in opposition to within the league since becoming a member of the Blues (two appearances), together with Liverpool (two) and Leicester (one).

Simply 41% of Chelsea’s Premier League factors this season have are available in house video games (9/22), the bottom ratio of any facet, so rediscovering that successful contact at Stamford Bridge can be essential if Maresca goes to, on the very least, safe Champions League qualification this time period.

They might additionally must shore up on the again. Chelsea have conceded at the least as soon as in all six of their Premier League house video games this season – they final had an extended look forward to a house clear sheet from the beginning of a league marketing campaign in 1978-79 (9 video games).

Villa have scored each a league-high complete (six) and share (32%) of their Premier League targets through headers this season, together with Ross Barkley’s equaliser in opposition to Crystal Palace final day trip. Because it stands, it’s their highest share of headed targets in a single top-flight marketing campaign since 2001-02 (33% – 15/46).

Ollie Watkins, in the meantime, has scored in his final two Premier League away video games in opposition to Chelsea, with each ending up being the successful purpose within the match. No visiting participant has ever scored three match-winning targets at Stamford Bridge within the competitors.

Chelsea vs Aston Villa Head-to-Head

Villa have received their final two Premier League away video games in opposition to Chelsea, as many as of their earlier 21 visits to Stamford Bridge (D4 L15).

They final received three consecutive away league video games in opposition to the Blues between 1930 and 1933.

Chelsea are winless of their final three Premier League conferences with Aston Villa (D1 L2), final having an extended such run in opposition to them between February 2006 and December 2007 (5).

Chelsea vs Aston Villa Prediction

Regardless of their current type in opposition to Villa, Chelsea are made the favourites by Opta’s supercomputer. The Blues have a 52% win chance.

Villa have a 25.2% likelihood of taking three factors, whereas the chance of a draw is 22.8%.

Chelsea vs Aston Villa Predicted Lineups

Opta Energy Rankings

The Opta Energy Rankings are a worldwide workforce rating system. They assign a capability rating to over 13,000 home soccer groups. This rating is on a scale between zero and 100, the place zero is the worst-ranked workforce on the planet and 100 is the perfect workforce on the planet.

Forward of kick-off this weekend, right here is the Opta Energy Rating for either side.

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Manchester United have been branded “very common” of their 4-0 win over Everton, with the scoreline not telling the story in response to a damning statistic.

Ruben Amorim secured his first win as United boss on Sunday as Marcus Rashford and Joshua Zirkzee scored two targets every to remarkably ship the Purple Devils above each Aston Villa and Everton within the desk and simply 4 factors off the Champions League spots.

However Dean Ashton insists the scoreline flattered Amorim’s facet – one thing the Portuguese boss agreed with – claiming the the show was “truly very common”.

“I didn’t assume Manchester United have been excellent in any respect,” Ashton stated on Sky Sports activities.

“As soon as they received these two targets within the first half they appeared much more comfy in possession and have been in a position to get via Everton a bit higher.

“There have been moments on the counter-attack once they appeared electrical and that’s as a result of they’ve received gamers which might be excellent at that.

“However the stats spotlight what the sport was like. United had an xG of 0.78 but they’ve gained 4-0. There was hardly something between the groups trying on the xG.

“That may give them confidence and perhaps gloss over what was truly a really common efficiency from Manchester United.

“I used to be truly impressed with Everton, but it’s 4-0 and an actual fear with the video games they’ve received arising.”

MORE MAN UTD COVERAGE ON F365…
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Rashford was closely criticised for his current shows beneath Erik ten Hag however now has three targets in two Premier League video games beneath Amorim.

Discussing Rashford’s revival, Ashton added: “When Rashford is comfy and joyful he’ll at all times be probably the greatest gamers within the Premier League and can at all times look threatening.

“I feel it’s extra about his perspective off the ball which was higher once more immediately.

“He appears to be like extra engaged than he did beneath Erik ten Hag and that’s essential for the brand new supervisor.”

Whereas Manchester United transfer into the top-half of the Premier League, Everton stay fifteenth, simply two factors above the relegation zone, having gained simply two of 13 league video games this season and failing to attain of their final 4.

“They’ve received a troublesome run arising,” Ashton stated of Everton, who face Liverpool, Arsenal, Chelsea and Manchester Metropolis over the subsequent month.

“Sean Dyche will in all probability assume they really performed alright immediately. He’s received to discover a approach for Everton to be threatening in any other case the defence will at all times be beneath extreme stress.

“They must be higher within the ahead positions. It’s received to be a large fear for Everton followers.”

Mohamed Salah scored one and created one other as Liverpool marched 11 factors away from Manchester Metropolis with a 2-0 victory over Pep Guardiola’s out-of-form aspect at Anfield.

Salah, who had beforehand squandered an ideal likelihood to double Liverpool’s lead, made positive of the factors from the penalty spot after Stefan Ortega had fouled Luis Diaz.

The Egyptian star created Liverpool’s early opener, choosing out Cody Gakpo with an outstanding low cross.

Liverpool’s dominance hardly ever seemed beneath risk as in addition they struck the woodwork twice within the first half, with Kevin De Bruyne failing to transform from Metropolis’s finest alternative because the guests misplaced a fourth straight league match.

Arne Slot’s aspect are actually 9 factors clear on the prime of the Premier League, whereas Metropolis are in fifth, with their hopes of retaining the title swiftly fading away.

How the match unfolded

Dominik Szoboszlai’s early long-range strike was pushed away by Ortega as Liverpool set the tone for an excellent show, and Metropolis’s goalkeeper – in for Ederson – then obtained a fingertip to Virgil van Dijk’s thumping header, nudging it onto a publish.

But, lower than a minute later, Gakpo discovered the breakthrough, darting to the far publish to information Salah’s sensible cross over the road.

Van Dijk headed simply large with one other free header shortly after, whereas Trent Alexander-Arnold additionally skimmed the publish with a drilled effort from the sting of the field.

Salah seemed sure to double their lead 56 minutes in, benefiting from a free Bernardo Silva cross as he surged in behind, however one-v-one towards Ortega, he lifted it over the crossbar.

But Liverpool obtained the second purpose their efficiency merited within the 78th minute. Salah slotted dwelling from the spot after Diaz was clattered into by Ortega, with the penalty confirmed following a VAR verify.

De Bruyne might need made issues attention-grabbing late on after robbing Van Dijk of possession, however Caoimhin Kelleher smothered the Belgian’s shot to cap a unbelievable day for the Reds.

Issues maintain getting higher for Slot

Though there’s nonetheless loads of the season left to play, there was a sense {that a} win for Liverpool may put the title out of Metropolis’s attain already, and the Reds definitely made an announcement, even when the four-time reigning champions can’t be discounted too quickly.

Liverpool began furiously, with Ortega pressured into some nice saves because the guests struggled to deal with the tempo.

Van Dijk might also really feel barely dissatisfied he didn’t add to Gakpo’s Twelfth-minute effort as he constantly triggered chaos from corners, however he additionally did his responsibility on the different finish as he appeared to get on the tip of each ball Metropolis put into the field. Even when the Dutchman made an error late on, his goalkeeper was there to bail him and Liverpool out.

Although he had earlier missed the prospect to place Liverpool out of sight, Salah – who didn’t convert a penalty towards Actual Madrid within the UEFA Champions League in midweek – held his nerve from the spot to place the end result to mattress.

A nine-point hole on the prime of the desk is just not fairly an unassailable lead in the beginning of December, however Liverpool have now crushed Madrid and Man Metropolis within the area of 4 days at Anfield, because the Slot revolution picks up additional momentum.

Metropolis’s stoop goes on

These are unprecedented occasions for Metropolis and Guardiola, who insisted he wanted to show himself after signing his new contract regardless of his exceptional success with the membership.

Metropolis threw away a three-goal lead towards Feyenoord in midweek they usually went into Sunday’s match as agency underdogs. In the end, they turned in a efficiency befitting of that label.

Guardiola shook issues up in an try to get a much-needed win, bringing in Ortega to exchange Ederson, whereas he additionally welcomed again Ruben Dias from damage.

Nonetheless, Metropolis struggled to match Liverpool’s early depth as their disjointed defence was uncovered they usually had been indebted to their goalkeeper, who stored them within the recreation as they failed to point out any actual risk on the different finish of the pitch.

Metropolis steadied the ship considerably within the second half with out exhibiting any actual risk to Liverpool’s steely defence, bar that late likelihood for De Bruyne, a lot to the house followers’ enjoyment.

Guardiola gave each units of supporters a reminder of Metropolis’s latest dominance, holding up six fingers to the group at full time – one for every Premier League title he has gained – however for this to be Metropolis’s season, they are going to want a minor miracle.

What the managers mentioned

Arne Slot: “If you wish to win towards Metropolis it’s a must to be excellent in each a part of the sport. Excessive press, low press, build-up. They bring about so many issues to you. We got here near perfection, we weren’t excellent however we got here near perfection. That is the one solution to beat a high quality workforce like Metropolis. I do not suppose anybody, together with me, would have predicted this [start]. I knew Jurgen [Klopp] left the workforce in an excellent place. However nonetheless, to win a lot with all of the troublesome groups now we have performed already is just not one thing you may predict in the beginning of the season. However, like I say, I noticed Arsenal yesterday and Chelsea as we speak and I noticed Metropolis, they are going to come again as a result of these groups have a lot high quality. They might go on the identical run as us. So now we have to remain sharp and targeted.”

Pep Guardiola: “The primary 15-20 minutes they had been unstoppable, they began so robust, we tried to play with a whole lot of management and passes, however it was troublesome to take it. They deserved the primary purpose, however we began the primary half so effectively and performed effectively within the second half with out an excessive amount of risk. I understand how robust Liverpool are in each packing containers. I congratulate them and we’ll reset and begin from zero and it’s troublesome to imagine it. I rely quite a bit on these gamers, I do know they’re doing on this place. We’ll see what occurs by the tip of the season.”

Membership studies

Liverpool report | Man Metropolis report

Subsequent Premier League fixtures

Key info

Liverpool are actually 9 factors clear on the prime of the Premier League; their greatest margin as leaders within the competitors because the ultimate day of the 2019/20 marketing campaign, after they gained their final title (18 factors).

Man Metropolis have misplaced 4 consecutive Premier League matches for the primary time since August 2008. In the meantime, that is the primary time in Guardiola’s managerial profession that he has misplaced 4 consecutive league matches.

Guardiola has gained simply six of his 23 matches towards Liverpool throughout all competitions (D8 L9). Of opponents he’s confronted greater than 5 occasions in his managerial profession, the Reds are the aspect he’s gained the bottom share of his video games towards (26 per cent).

Salah scored and assisted in a Premier League recreation for the thirty sixth time; the joint-most by a participant within the competitors’s historical past, equalling Wayne Rooney’s document as we speak (36).

Liverpool vs Manchester Metropolis – LIVE!

Liverpool took additional management of the Premier League title race with a 2-0 win over Manchester Metropolis at Anfield, making it seven video games and not using a victory for Pep Guardiola’s facet. Cody Gakpo opened the scoring from shut vary after a superb ball throughout the face of purpose from Mohamed Salah, as Liverpool threatened to run away with it within the opening phases.

Virgil van Dijk hit the put up with a header after which nodded broad from a nook shortly after, whereas Gakpo blasted over as Metropolis discovered themselves unable to deal with the relentless wave of Liverpool assaults. The guests no less than saved the deficit down to 1 heading into half-time, and for a lot of the second interval it was a extra even counter, Metropolis nonetheless in with a shout of taking one thing from the match and incomes a consequence that would have turned their type round.

However with simply over ten minutes remaining, Metropolis made a multitude of issues on the again and couldn’t recuperate. Stefan Ortega, in purpose rather than the dropped Ederson, charged off his line and worn out Luis Diaz, with the referee instantly pointing to the spot. Mohamed Salah missed a penalty in midweek in opposition to Actual Madrid however no mistake right here, whipping the spot-kick into the underside nook to seal victory.

Liverpool vs Man Metropolis newest information

Thanks for following!

19:29 , Matt Verri

Liverpool took additional management of the Premier League title race with a 2-0 win over Manchester Metropolis at Anfield, making it seven video games and not using a victory for Pep Guardiola’s facet.

Cody Gakpo opened the scoring from shut vary after a superb ball throughout the face of purpose from Mohamed Salah, who would later put the match to mattress from the penalty spot, as Liverpool threatened to run away with it within the opening phases.

Virgil van Dijk hit the put up with a header after which nodded broad from a nook shortly after, whereas Gakpo blasted over as Metropolis discovered themselves unable to deal with the relentless wave of Liverpool assaults.

The guests no less than saved the deficit down to 1 heading into half-time, and for a lot of the second interval it was a extra even counter, Metropolis nonetheless in with a shout of taking one thing from the match and incomes a consequence that would have turned their type round.

However with simply over ten minutes remaining, Metropolis made a multitude of issues on the again and couldn’t recuperate. Stefan Ortega, in purpose rather than the dropped Ederson, charged off his line and worn out Luis Diaz, with the referee instantly pointing to the spot.

Mohamed Salah missed a penalty in midweek in opposition to Actual Madrid however no mistake right here, whipping the spot-kick into the underside nook to successfully seal victory.

Learn our full report right here

Salah goals dig at Carragher

18:29 , Matt Verri

Mohamed Salah aimed a dig at Jamie Carragher after he was accused of being “egocentric’ for his feedback over a brand new Liverpool contract.

The Liverpool star’s present deal expires on the finish of the season and he has been vocal in his need to be supplied a brand new contract, revealing after final week’s win over Southampton that he was dissatisfied on the membership for not opening talks.

Carragher questioned the timing of Salah going public along with his frustration forward of video games in opposition to Actual Madrid and Manchester Metropolis, each of which Liverpool have gone on to win.

Salah scored a penalty within the 2-0 victory over Metropolis at Anfield on Sunday and was named participant of the match, having additionally offered the help for Cody Gakpo’s opener.

Virgil van Dijk had additionally been within the operating for the award, having impressed on the again. He was interviewed post-match alongside Salah and requested who had determined to call the Egyptian as participant of the match.

Instructed it was Gary Neville, Van Dijk turned to Salah and joked: “Nicely finished, I’m shocked that Carra didn’t give it to you.”

Salah responded: “Oh he wouldn’t. By no means. He wouldn’t give it to me. I don’t need to speak about it.”

Van Dijk added: “No, we don’t hearken to any of that.”

Salah’s post-match ideas

18:14 , Matt Verri

The Liverpool star once more references his contract uncertainty, along with his present deal set to run out on the finish of the season.

He says: “Truthfully it is in my head. Till now that is the final Metropolis sport I’ll play for Liverpool so I used to be simply going to take pleasure in it.

“The ambiance was unbelievable so I’ll take pleasure in each second right here. Hopefully we simply win the league and can see what’s going to occur.”

New low…

18:07 , Matt Verri

Man Metropolis have issues. Huge, large issues.

Guardiola doubling down!

17:59 , Matt Verri

Pep Guardiola put the six fingers as much as the Liverpool followers and he does the identical to the away finish after the match.

Ensuring everybody remembers what number of instances he’s gained the Premier League…

FT: Liverpool 2-0 Man Metropolis

17:55 , Matt Verri

Liverpool 11 factors away from Man Metropolis!

One other excellent efficiency from the Reds, they have been far too good for Metropolis in the present day.

It’s seven matches and not using a win for Pep Guardiola’s facet.

Liverpool 2-0 Man Metropolis

17:52

90+2 minutes: Elliott makes his return from harm, changing Diaz for the ultimate couple of minutes.

Liverpool look able to scoring a 3rd right here, Metropolis determined for the ultimate whistle.

Nunez clear by means of, Ortega denies him… offside flag up anyway.

Liverpool 2-0 Man Metropolis

17:50 , Matt Verri

90 minutes: Liverpool in once more, Walker has been so shaky in defence.

Jones tries to whip an effort in on the close to put up, Ortega turns it behind for a nook.

5 minutes added on.

Liverpool 2-0 Man Metropolis

17:47 , Matt Verri

87 minutes: “Sacked within the morning” is the mantra from the Liverpool followers. Simply what Guardiola wants proper now.

Liverpool nonetheless working so laborious off the ball, Metropolis don’t appear to be making something occur.

Guardiola now with a smile to the supporters because the chants proceed. And 6 fingers as much as the followers!

Liverpool 2-0 Man Metropolis

17:43 , Matt Verri

83 minutes: MASSIVE SAVE!

Nicely that would actually have modified issues.

Van Dijk journeys on the ball, De Bruyne is clear by means of. Tries to slip it underneath Kelleher, however the goalkeeper makes an outstanding cease and falls on the ball.

Liverpool 2-0 Man Metropolis

17:42 , Matt Verri

82 minutes: It is not going to shock you to listen to the Liverpool followers are up and about, enormous roar greeting each problem.

Dias tries his luck from 30 yards out… it barely makes it to Kelleher.

Liverpool 2-0 Man Metropolis

17:40 , Matt Verri

80 minutes: Grealish and De Bruyne are on for Man Metropolis, who want one thing extraordinary if that is to be circled.

Silva and Salah need to be pulled aside, Metropolis heads operating scorching.

GOAL! Liverpool 2-0 Man Metropolis | Mohamed Salah 77′

17:37 , Matt Verri

Undecided why Metropolis are protesting this. Ortega received nowhere close to the ball and cleaned Diaz out. As apparent a penalty as you’ll ever see.

Salah missed in midweek in opposition to Actual Madrid. Can he put this match successfully to mattress?

Sure he can! No mistake this time from the spot.

Liverpool 1-0 Man Metropolis

17:35 , Matt Verri

75 minutes: In truth Quansah has gone out to right-back, Gomez staying within the centre alongside Van Dijk. Powerful check for Quansah in opposition to Doku.

Dias will get himself into an almighty mess on the again, Diaz pounces… PENALTY!

Ortega got here flying out and he’s introduced Diaz down.

Liverpool 1-0 Man Metropolis

17:33 , Matt Verri

72 minutes: This may solely add to the tempo and risk of Liverpool on the counter.

Gakpo off, Nunez on for the ultimate 20 minutes or so. Alexander-Arnold additionally changed, Quansah on in his place. Think about Gomez will shift to right-back.

Liverpool 1-0 Man Metropolis

17:31 , Matt Verri

71 minutes: Metropolis are beginning to actually consider they will get one thing from this, you’re feeling. Doku seems actually harmful.

Savinho dinks in a cross from the opposite flank, Gomez there in entrance of Haaland. Man Metropolis striker not getting a sniff.

Liverpool 1-0 Man Metropolis

17:29 , Matt Verri

69 minutes: So good from Doku, twists away from Alexander-Arnold and the right-back doesn’t know the place he’s.

However Van Dijk clears, but once more, and Liverpool can break. Gakpo goes for max energy with the shot from 20 yards out, straight at Ortega.

Liverpool 1-0 Man Metropolis

17:26 , Matt Verri

66 minutes: Liverpool must take one among these probabilities on the counter.

Salah free on the best, lays it again for Alexander-Arnold and it’s one other large likelihood. Ortega makes a very good save.

Wouldn’t have counted anyway, offside flag is up.

Liverpool 1-0 Man Metropolis

17:24 , Matt Verri

63 minutes: Man Metropolis lose it in midfield, Salah can pounce and drive on the defence.

Goes by himself, into the field and slices an effort broad from 20 yards out. Determined as ever to get himself on the scoresheet.

Liverpool 1-0 Man Metropolis

17:22 , Matt Verri

62 minutes: Van Dijk pressured to burst into high gear, as Akanji floats the ball excessive.

Haaland had spun Gomez, however Van Dijk will get again and volleys the ball away to security.

Liverpool 1-0 Man Metropolis

17:20 , Matt Verri

60 minutes: Doku drives into the world, his shot is blocked. Foden then can’t fairly glide by means of the pink shirts.

Liverpool being pinned again barely in entrance of the Kop. Metropolis are on this match with half-hour to go, regardless of what we’ve seen for a lot of the match.

Liverpool 1-0 Man Metropolis

17:18 , Matt Verri

58 minutes: Guardiola does now flip to his bench.

Savinho and Doku are on, Gundogan and Nunes making method. Far more tempo to this Metropolis facet rapidly.

Liverpool 1-0 Man Metropolis

17:16 , Matt Verri

56 minutes: HUGE MISS!

Needs to be 2-0. Silva with a dreadful move, Salah pounces and he’s clear by means of on purpose.

Ortega mainly sits down, Salah seems to elevate it into the highest nook… over the bar. Huge second.

Liverpool 1-0 Man Metropolis

17:15 , Matt Verri

55 minutes: Metropolis are displaying significantly better indicators. Liverpool followers reply by turning up the noise.

Walker’s cut-back picks out Silva, he dances to the byline however can’t preserve it in play as he dinks the ball up and over the bar.

Liverpool 1-0 Man Metropolis

17:14 , Matt Verri

53 minutes: Foden briefly thinks he’s in down the left, however Robertson and Szoboszlai are each there to slam the door shut.

Certainly some mixture of Doku, Grealish, Savinho and De Bruyne will likely be introduced on quickly.

Liverpool 1-0 Man Metropolis

17:11 , Matt Verri

51 minutes: Beautiful move from Robertson, Gakpo in on purpose however Nunes tracks the run and slides in good to dam the shot.

Alexander-Arnold takes the nook, Van Dijk is profitable completely every little thing. Flicked onto the roof of the online.

Liverpool 1-0 Man Metropolis

17:10 , Matt Verri

50 minutes: Metropolis nook, they’ve been higher for the reason that restart.

Gundogan swings it in, Van Dijk as soon as once more there to cease Akanji getting a header at purpose.

Liverpool 1-0 Man Metropolis

17:07 , Matt Verri

47 minutes: Much less tempo to the match within the opening couple of minutes, which is suiting Man Metropolis.

They’re knocking the ball round comfortably, Liverpool pleased sufficient to allow them to have it on the again.

Pinged out excessive to Walker, who’s about three miles offside.

Again underway!

17:05 , Matt Verri

Up and operating within the second-half.

No modifications on the break from both facet. That’s a daring name from Guardiola.

Man Metropolis toothless

16:59 , Matt Verri

Can’t be lengthy till Guardiola modifications issues.

De Bruyne, Doku, Savinho and Grealish all on the bench – Metropolis want one thing in assault.

They haven’t troubled the Liverpool defence in any respect.

The distinction at half-time…

16:54 , Matt Verri

Simply the one purpose for Liverpool, regardless of their dominance.

Sensational from Salah, Gakpo available on the again put up to show it in from a few yards out.

HT: Liverpool 1-0 Man Metropolis

16:50 , Matt Verri

That’s half-time at Anfield.

Liverpool have been largely good, filled with power and depth. Gakpo’s purpose gave them a deserved lead and there might have been two or three extra.

Man Metropolis a mile off their finest… once more. Haven’t regarded like scoring, a multitude on the again. Not a super mixture.

Liverpool 1-0 Man Metropolis

16:48 , Matt Verri

45+2 minutes: Referee goes again to e book Akanji, having performed benefit after he took out Gakpo.

Liverpool nook, their fifth of the match. Van Dijk has regarded like scoring from most of them.

This one doesn’t come to him, labored to Alexander-Arnold as a substitute. Ballooned over from 25 yards out.

Liverpool 1-0 Man Metropolis

16:46 , Matt Verri

45 minutes: Three minutes at half-time.

Liverpool breaking into the house, Diaz tries to change it out to Salah however Ake sees it coming and intercepts.

Liverpool 1-0 Man Metropolis

16:45 , Matt Verri

44 minutes: Salah decides to attempt to award a free-kick to himself, hopping away after claiming he’d been caught from behind.

Then continues hopping in fury as play is waved on. Assistant was about three yards away from him and didn’t see something.

Liverpool 1-0 Man Metropolis

16:43 , Matt Verri

42 minutes: Van Dijk has been too good for Haaland up to now, Man Metropolis striker is dropping the ball on the uncommon events he does get it.

Not many in a Metropolis shirt having a lot enjoyable on the market. Nunes and Lewis because the wingers isn’t working in any respect.

Liverpool 1-0 Man Metropolis

16:40 , Matt Verri

39 minutes: A shot for Metropolis!

Their first of the match. Respectable likelihood, too.

Haaland lays it off to Lewis, he drives into the field and tries to poke it into the far nook. Scuffed a few yards broad.

Liverpool 1-0 Man Metropolis

16:39 , Matt Verri

38 minutes: Appeals for a Liverpool penalty, swiftly waved away.

It’s one other nice ball from Salah, swung with the skin of his boot into the trail of Diaz.

Heavy first contact, he then topples over underneath strain from Walker. Referee not .

Liverpool 1-0 Man Metropolis

16:37 , Matt Verri

36 minutes: Gravenberch received away with one earlier – by no means getting away with this.

Foden with a beautiful flick and Gundogan is away for Metropolis on the counter, till Gravenberch shoves him over from behind.

Reserving for the Dutchman.

Liverpool 1-0 Man Metropolis

16:35 , Matt Verri

34 minutes: Simply broad!

Nook drops for Alexander-Arnold, simply exterior the world.

First contact is ideal, second contact is a shot that’s pulled simply past the close to put up. Not distant in any respect.

Liverpool 1-0 Man Metropolis

16:34 , Matt Verri

33 minutes: Yellow card for Foden, who received turned by Gravenberch and dragged him again. Straightforward one for the referee.

Gomez fires a superb lengthy ball out to Salah, who’s one-on-one with Ake once more. Has to accept profitable one other nook.

Liverpool 1-0 Man Metropolis

16:32 , Matt Verri

31 minutes: However right here come Liverpool once more.

Gravenberch too sturdy for Foden, ball labored out to the best and Alexander-Arnold has a lot house.

Lets fly from 25 yards out, charged down. Regarded like that might have triggered Ortega an actual drawback.

Liverpool 1-0 Man Metropolis

16:31 , Matt Verri

30 minutes: Liverpool sitting off for now, Metropolis have seen almost the entire ball within the final 5 minutes or so.

Would say the hosts nonetheless look snug, and are carrying an actual risk on the counter.

That Metropolis midfield will not be trying like they’re going to supply a lot safety.

Liverpool 1-0 Man Metropolis

16:28 , Matt Verri

27 minutes: Akanji stands up a cross to the again put up, Haaland able to throw himself at it however Van Dijk is there to flick a header away.

Guests have positively settled down.

Liverpool 1-0 Man Metropolis

16:27 , Matt Verri

26 minutes: Haaland with I feel his first contact of the match, as Akanji slides it into his path.

Tries to chop inside, however Van Dijk sticks a leg out and the possibility goes.

Simply a few indicators that Metropolis is likely to be beginning to get themselves into this match and waking up, from the bottom of low bars.

Liverpool 1-0 Man Metropolis

16:25 , Matt Verri

24 minutes: Metropolis maintaining the ball for just about the primary time… however they very almost make a multitude of it on the again.

Walker with an odd header, Robertson almost in however Metropolis get away with it.

Nunes has a run at Alexander-Arnold, Liverpool man as much as the duty and wins it again. Nunes runs after him and slides in, doesn’t get the ball. Yellow card.

Liverpool 1-0 Man Metropolis

16:23 , Matt Verri

22 minutes: Right here we go once more, Robertson this time charging away down the left. Three to select within the center, Lewis will get again to dam the cross.

One other nook – Metropolis may need to have a go at marking Van Dijk.

He’s stood on the again put up on Walker, Alexander-Arnold’s ball in for as soon as isn’t notably good and Metropolis can take care of it.

Liverpool 1-0 Man Metropolis

16:20 , Matt Verri

20 minutes: You’ll not see a extra one-sided match than this!

Metropolis robbed in their very own half, Diaz slides it by means of to Alexander-Arnold.

Onto his left foot within the field, rolls into the trail of Gakpo and he blasts over. One other enormous likelihood.

Liverpool 1-0 Man Metropolis

16:20 , Matt Verri

19 minutes: It’s 1-0 occurring 6-0.

One other nook, one other Van Dijk likelihood. No one notably marking him, will get up and nods broad from six yards out. Ought to have scored.

Liverpool 1-0 Man Metropolis

16:19 , Matt Verri

18 minutes: Beautiful move from Alexander-Arnold, pinged excessive and Salah is charging after it.

Will get there earlier than Ake, who has to slip in to poke it behind for a nook.

Liverpool 1-0 Man Metropolis

16:17 , Matt Verri

16 minutes: Foden high quality to proceed. Few Metropolis gamers have been having lengthy chats throughout that break in play, attempting to type issues out on the break.

They’ll’t preserve the ball for quite a lot of seconds, Liverpool swarming them.

Liverpool 1-0 Man Metropolis

16:15

14 minutes: Foden left in a heap, after Gravenberch catches him.

He’ll want some therapy and Man Metropolis gamers get an opportunity to breathe for the primary time in 14 minutes.

They’ve been battered up to now. So good from Salah for that purpose, good ball in and Gakpo couldn’t miss.

GOAL! Liverpool 1-0 Man Metropolis | Cody Gakpo 12′

16:13 , Matt Verri

THERE IT IS!

It was inevitable, Liverpool have been completely rampant and now they’ve the purpose to point out for it.

Salah throughout the face of purpose from a good angle, Ortega will get a slight contact however Gakpo is following in to bundle residence from shut vary.

Liverpool 0-0 Man Metropolis

16:12 , Matt Verri

12 minutes: OFF THE POST!

The purpose is coming. Nook taken quick, finally clipped to the again put up and Van Dijk will get up, powering a header off the woodwork.

Liverpool 0-0 Man Metropolis

16:12 , Matt Verri

11 minutes: Diaz seems actually sharp by means of the center.

Lengthy ball ahead, Walker and Dias go away it for one another, Liverpool ahead not distant from charging straight by means of.

Hosts keep on the assault, Szoboszlai with one other effort and Ortega can solely shovel it away.

Alexander-Arnold wins a nook… one-way visitors continues.

Liverpool 0-0 Man Metropolis

16:10 , Matt Verri

9 minutes: Diaz and Gakpo very almost in once more, this Metropolis defence are hanging on for expensive life. Ake then expenses down a shot from Szoboszlai.

Nicely, the excellent news for Guardiola is that it’s 0-0.

That’s the tip of the excellent news.

Liverpool 0-0 Man Metropolis

16:08 , Matt Verri

7 minutes: Relentless strain – Metropolis can not get out.

Szoboszlai with a shot this time, received it caught underneath his ft although and it’s a snug save for Ortega.

Liverpool 0-0 Man Metropolis

16:07 , Matt Verri

6 minutes: It’s all Liverpool in the meanwhile, Metropolis have barely had a kick.

Szoboszlai drills it low into the field, half an attraction from Diaz for a penalty however even he didn’t consider that.

Liverpool 0-0 Man Metropolis

16:05 , Matt Verri

4 minutes: Nice save!

Huge likelihood for Liverpool, as Diaz performs Gakpo clear by means of on purpose.

Takes some time to get the shot away, chopping inside and finally he forces Ortega to tip it behind.

Offside flag up anyway.

Liverpool 0-0 Man Metropolis

16:03 , Matt Verri

2 minutes: Liverpool have already gone lengthy just a few instances, probably not attempting to play by means of the Metropolis press within the early minutes.

Salah has his first likelihood to run with it, inside onto his left foot and the whipped cross is thru everybody and out of play.

KICK-OFF!

16:01 , Matt Verri

Up and operating!

Man Metropolis win the toss and have switched ends, so Liverpool will assault the Kop within the first-half.

15:58 , Matt Verri

Enormous roar because the groups stroll out. Sensible ambiance, as you’d anticipate.

Liverpool swatted apart Actual Madrid in midweek. May take a significant step in the direction of the title over the subsequent week – Man Metropolis in the present day, away journeys to Newcastle and Everton subsequent up.

Win all of these and the expectation will rise massively.

Right here we go!

15:55 , Matt Verri

Groups are within the tunnel at Anfield.

Liverpool completely flying, Man Metropolis in no type in any respect… every little thing factors to a house win.

However Metropolis absolutely have to return good sooner or later. A win in the present day and every little thing fully turns round.

Slot: We’ll have to attend and see

15:49 , Matt Verri

Arne Slot has been requested what he’s anticipating from Manchester Metropolis this afternoon, after seeing that lineup.

“They wish to have management, they wish to have the ball,” Slot mentioned.

“They wish to dominate possession. Perhaps the one distinction is you usually see wingers, and now no wingers are enjoying or different sort of wingers are enjoying from the facet.

“Now we have to attend and see within the first jiffy in the event that they’ve modified something when it comes to formation, however the thought about soccer has all the time been the identical for Pep.”

Not lengthy now!

15:42

Kick-off slightly below 20 minutes away at Anfield…

Elsewhere within the Premier League

15:36 , Matt Verri

Full-time in in the present day’s three early kick-offs.

Manchester United have hammered Everton 4-0 in Ruben Amorim’s first Premier League match at Outdated Trafford first rate begin.

Chelsea, in the meantime, are stage on factors with Arsenal in second after cruising to a 3-0 win over Aston Villa.

Tottenham couldn’t again up final weekend’s gorgeous win over Man Metropolis, they’ve been held to a 1-1 draw by 10-man Fulham.

Ederson choice defined…

15:25 , Matt Verri

Extra now from Pep Guardiola, who has been talking forward of kick-off.

He was requested concerning the choice to drop Ederson and begin Stefan Ortega in purpose this afternoon.

“We simply wished to alter one thing,” Guardiola mentioned.

“Eddy has saved a whole lot of targets for us. He is saved 1v1s many, many instances, however I made a decision to choose Stefan in the present day.

“Each are extremely high goalkeepers, they’re each unbelievable with their ft and in 1v1s.”

Guardiola: Liverpool have my respect

15:17 , Matt Verri

Pep Guardiola believes there are many similarities between this Liverpool facet and Jurgen Klopp’s groups, warning his Man Metropolis gamers that they have to be prepared for the tempo of the Reds’ forwards gamers.

The Metropolis boss mentioned: “It’s actually good. Perhaps extra positional sport however the transition from Jurgen all the time is there. Each nook or free-kick for you is a transition for them.

“How fast they’re and the weapons that they’ve up entrance, all the time have been there. It was Mane, Firmino, all the time Mo Salah, now it’s Jota, Nunez, Luis Diaz too.

“You understand the opinion I’ve and the respect. We fought the largest battles in my time right here.

“At all times I’ve an enormous consideration for this membership and nothing modifications. They’re doing nicely, they’re so steady and actually good however that’s good we’ll be taught from that.”

Within the constructing!

15:08 , Matt Verri

Liverpool arrived at Anfield slightly earlier this afternoon…

Probability for both to make an enormous assertion…

15:02

If Liverpool win this afternoon, they may as soon as once more transfer 9 factors away from Arsenal on the high of the Premier League.

It could additionally go away them 11 factors forward of Pep Guardiola’s facet after solely 13 matches – unbelievable begin to life underneath Arne Slot.

Man Metropolis know they can not afford to lose. A draw and the hole will keep at eight, however a win right here at Anfield will get them to inside 5 factors of Liverpool.

Then it actually could be sport on.

Adjustments from each!

14:52 , Matt Verri

Gakpo does certainly begin for Liverpool by means of the center, with Nunez on the bench.

Man Metropolis staff information

14:47 , Matt Verri

Man Metropolis XI: Ortega, Walker, Akanji, Dias, Ake, Lewis, Gundogan, Nunes, Bernardo, Foden, Haaland

Subs: Ederson, Carson, Grealish, Doku, De Bruyne, Gvardiol, Savinho, O’Reilly, McAtee

Liverpool staff information

14:46

Liverpool XI: Kelleher, Alexander-Arnold, Gomez, Van Dijk, Robertson, Gravenberch, Mac Allister, Szoboszlai, Salah, Gakpo, Diaz

Subs: Jaros, Davies, Endo, Nunez, Jones, Elliott, Quansah, Morton, Nyoni

Stand by…

14:40 , Matt Verri

All of the staff information developing from Anfield within the subsequent 5 minutes or so.

Appears like there are a few modifications for Liverpool on high of the enforced ones on the again.

Cody Gakpo might nicely be main the road this afternoon, with Luis Diaz and Mohamed Salah both facet of him.

Frustration for Guardiola

14:30 , Matt Verri

5 defeats in a row in all competitions… after which this on Tuesday evening.

Man Metropolis have been 3-0 up in opposition to Feyenoord and seemingly nicely on their technique to a much-needed return to profitable methods.

However Pep Guardiola’s facet fell aside within the closing phases, as Feyenoord got here away from the Etihad with a degree.

Guardiola was left clawing at his personal face…

Starting of the tip for Walker?

14:21 , Matt Verri

The identify of Kyle Walker’s weekly podcast on BBC Sounds is a nod to his popularity as one among Europe’s quickest defenders: ‘You’ll By no means Beat Kyle Walker’.

Until, that’s, you might be Adama Traore or Timo Werner, who’ve each overwhelmed the Manchester Metropolis captain with obvious ease in current weeks.

Traore left Walker for useless in a straight dash from the midway line throughout Metropolis’s 3-2 win over Fulham in October (solely to fluff his end), whereas Werner breezed previous him to arrange Tottenham’s fourth purpose final Saturday, which prolonged the champions’ exceptional dropping streak to 5 matches.

Walker used to take care of even the top-flight’s quickest forwards however the 34-year-old has misplaced an important yard this season, which seems to have taken him abruptly.

This isn’t to mock or dismiss Walker, who’s among the many many Metropolis gamers to undergo from accidents this time period, however age catches up with the very best of us, and also you surprise if he’s lastly coming to the tip of a sustained interval because the Premier League’s foremost flying full-back

Learn extra on that right here!

Enormous afternoon forward!

14:12

The followers are beginning to arrive at Anfield…

Customary Sport prediction

14:05 , Matt Verri

Whereas Metropolis’s stoop absolutely can not proceed for for much longer given the standard out there, Liverpool will likely be licking their lips.

Boasting a very good file in opposition to their rivals at Anfield anyway, a house win seems the almost certainly final result.

Liverpool to win, 3-1.

Man Metropolis staff information

13:54 , Matt Verri

Manchester Metropolis hope to in the present day welcome Ruben Dias again

The defender returned to the bench for Tuesday’s dramatic 3-3 draw with Feyenoord within the Champions League because the disaster continued for Pep Guardiola.

Dias might provide Metropolis some welcome defensive cowl. Guardiola has admitted his staff are “fragile” and the Portugal worldwide has missed the final three video games, so his return ought to assist shore issues up.

John Stones is a significant doubt after lacking the Feyenoord sport, whereas Mateo Kovacic, Oscar Bobb and Rodri are long-term absentees.

Such is the significance of the sport, maybe Kevin De Bruyne could possibly be afforded his first begin in weeks after making cameo appearances off the bench lately. Jeremy Doku stays a doubt, too.

Talking earlier than the sport, Guardiola refused to be drawn on the probabilities of welcoming injured gamers again.

“We’ll see in the present day. At the moment we are going to see,” he informed a press convention on Friday.

Man Metropolis predicted XI: Ederson; Walker, Dias, Akanji, Gvardiol; Gundogan, Silva, De Bruyne; Foden, Haaland, Grealish

Liverpool staff information

13:47 , Matt Verri

Liverpool have misplaced Ibrahima Konate and Conor Bradley to harm for numerous weeks.

The duo each sustained knocks throughout Wednesday’s 2-0 over Actual Madrid within the Champions League as their exceptional begin to the season continued.

Konate appeared to have been in important ache when requiring therapy on the finish of the victory over the European champions, and has reportedly been dominated out for the remainder of the yr, whereas Bradley needed to come off in the direction of the tip of the sport itself and is now additionally not anticipated to return earlier than 2025.

“It’s by no means a very good signal if gamers,” revealed the Reds boss on Thursday.

“Conor, I needed to take him off and Ibou didn’t stroll off the pitch as he ought to have after such a improbable sport that he performed. He ought to have made a spherical [of the pitch] and clapped the followers however sadly he couldn’t in order that’s not a very good signal.”

Slot, nevertheless, has been handed a lift with regard to vice-captain Trent Alexander-Arnold.

Diogo Jota, Kostas Tsimikas, Federico Chiesa and Alisson Becker are usually not anticipated to be concerned for the go to of the champions, who path Liverpool by eight factors.

Liverpool predicted lineup: Kelleher; Alexander-Arnold, Gomez, Van Dijk, Robertson; Gravenberch, Mac Allister; Salah, Jones, Diaz, Nunez

How you can watch Liverpool vs Man Metropolis

13:39 , Matt Verri

TV channel: The sport will likely be broadcast on Sky Sports activities Most important Occasion, Sky Sports activities Premier League and Sky Sports activities Extremely HDR. Protection begins after Chelsea’s conflict with Aston Villa, which kicks off at 1.30pm GMT.

Reside stream: Subscribers will be capable of watch on a reside stream by way of the Sky Go app.

LIVE protection: Comply with all of the motion proper right here with us!

Good afternoon!

13:33 , Matt Verri

Howdy and welcome to Customary Sport’s LIVE protection of Liverpool vs Manchester Metropolis!

It’s an enormous afternoon within the Premier League, as Liverpool look to take additional management of the title race and Metropolis try to put an finish to their depressing run of type.

We’ll have all the newest updates, build-up and staff information forward of kick-off, which comes at 4pm GMT from Anfield!

Liverpool can be licking their lips in anticipation. Luck has befallen them. The Premier League leaders face a Manchester Metropolis facet in freefall on Tremendous Sunday this weekend, with the possibility to successfully finish their rivals’ title defence for good. Christmas has certainly come early.

Sunday can be as a lot about Man Metropolis’s demise – ought to they lose – as it is going to be about Liverpool’s possible pursuit of silverware this season, however because the previous saying goes: ‘You may solely play what’s in entrance of you.’

And what awaits Liverpool at Anfield is a shell of facet, scarcely able to disarming Feyenoord, the Eredivisie’s fourth-placed group, not to mention the Premier League’s frontrunners. Man Metropolis seem to have been purged of their powers.

This assembly, at this specific level within the season, is sort of serendipitous for Arne Slot. Hardly ever, if ever, have the circumstances been extra beneficial. Slot’s Liverpool have the potential to profit in essentially the most profound of how on Sunday, stealing a march on Pep Guardiola within the Dutchman’s very first managerial assembly.

How usually do you get the chance to kick Metropolis whereas they’re down? They’re strolling wounded – on a six-game winless run, together with 5 defeats – and if Liverpool take benefit as most anticipate them to, certainly the title race is all however over? The outlook is as polarising as it has been for years.

“Liverpool have been glorious and have each probability of profitable this title,” remarked Roy Keane final weekend. “In the event that they flip up at their best possible, with the followers behind them, and beat Metropolis – what a press release it will be. It could be over for Metropolis in the event that they lose.”

Paul Merson’s view: “The Premier League want Man Metropolis to win on Sunday, as a result of in any other case Liverpool are going to spread-eagle. They might run away with this league title very quickly.” Opta places Liverpool’s possibilities of lifting the trophy in Might at 74.8 per cent.

And but, they’ve received simply certainly one of their final 9 Premier League video games in opposition to Man Metropolis. This fixture has not been a cheerful looking floor in current occasions, needing to journey again to October 2022 to dig up the final constructive consequence – Mohamed Salah predictably scoring the decider in a 1-0 win.

It could shock few if the identical matchwinner resurfaced this time round. In addition to having essentially the most targets and assists mixed within the Premier League this season (16), Salah’s purpose involvements have additionally been value a league-high 17 factors to Liverpool this time period.

Placing the ultimate nail in Man Metropolis’s coffin could properly act because the sweetener to the Egyptian’s lobbying for a brand new and improved deal – extra on that later.

Optimistic omens are plentiful. Solely as soon as (Manchester United in 1993/94) has a group had a better lead on rivals than Liverpool possess proper now after 12 video games. Their haul of 31 factors can solely be equalled or bettered 10 occasions in Premier League historical past – eight of these golf equipment had been topped title winners.

It is onerous to think about a world the place Slot would enable complacency to set in, even with such a major eight-point, which might prolong to 11-point, hole. This isn’t a supervisor who neglects the basics. He is aware of nothing is received this facet of Christmas, albeit hope, in Man Metropolis’s case, could possibly be altogether misplaced.

Pragmatic Slot may have a plan for Sunday, and little of it would journey on the notion that the guests to Merseyside will merely roll over. A personality reminiscent of Slot senses the chance but additionally the danger.

He’ll need to win by design, as a result of groups who depart issues to probability in opposition to Man Metropolis – as downbeat and leggy as they’re – get punished.

Again in 2022, the place Salah settled a fiery and pulsating encounter at Anfield – Jurgen Klopp was really despatched off – it was goalkeeper Alisson who carved the opening with a run-of-the-mill punt downfield. What Salah did with that lengthy kick was nothing wanting sensational, however this was a sport of frayed tempers and positive margins. Had been it not for Alisson’s fast considering or Joao Cancelo’s incapacity to defend, the sport might fairly simply have completed 0-0.

This time, Slot will need management and calm heads. Liverpool are able to demand such requirements. They’re succesful, at full throttle, of placing this fragile Man Metropolis facet to job at each ends of the pitch, a lot in the identical method they scolded Champions League holders Actual Madrid on Wednesday evening to remain excellent in Europe.

One other check handed.

They are saying to be the most effective, you need to beat the most effective. Actual and England midfielder Jude Bellingham known as Liverpool the “best-performing group in Europe” proper now. He is most likely proper. There exists a fearsome mixture of starpower and firepower on the prime finish, a clear and tidy midfield engine who can run but additionally create, and a sturdy backline who not often concede targets. Deputy goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher even denied Kylian Mbappe from the penalty spot on Wednesday.

Every thing that may go proper goes proper.

Maybe the one lingering uncertainty considerations the frilly sport of Snog, Marry, Keep away from Liverpool are taking part in with their three finest gamers. Virgil van Dijk, Trent Alexander-Arnold and Salah’s contracts all expire this summer time, and talks over future offers seem no additional forwards, with ideas the membership can solely afford to maintain two of three. Slot can be hoping none of his prized trio are misplaced, however finally, negotiations can be out of his fingers.

His affect on the effectivity of this Liverpool facet on the pitch, nonetheless, has been keenly felt. Their solely Premier League defeat this season was a 1-0 loss to Nottingham Forest, having received seven of their eight video games since then, scoring at the least twice in all however one. Momentum is constructing. A fuse has been lit.

And now comes the fortuity to situation the largest assertion of all. To observe up the beating of the reigning European champions with victory over the six-time (beneath Pep) Premier League champions, all inside a four-day interval, can be one thing to cherish. A souvenir to treasure.

Liverpool have their probability, they simply need to take it.

She’s meant to be happening All Stars? I want solutions!

This weekend, it’s been reported Love Island 2024 Islander Grace Jackson is courting Manchester United footballer, Marcus Rashford. A crossover I by no means noticed coming.

Grace clearly expressed a like for footballers, leaving the 2024 villa with participant Reuben Collins, however issues between them had been quickly put to mattress. Now, the UK actuality sphere has been despatched into meltdown over rumours she’s been with England footballer Marcus for ages. However she was additionally meant to be happening All Stars within the new 12 months?! What the hell is happening?!

Apparently Love Island 2024’s Grace has been courting Marcus Rashford for months!

This weekend, The Solar reported Grace and Marcus are the newest Manchester it couple. He’s clearly a footballer within the metropolis, and Grace makes huge connections, being from there and dealing as an influencer after Love Island. It’s probably not massively shocking they could have crossed paths.

However what’s shocking, is that they’ve apparently been a factor for months?! And we managed to overlook it?! A pal informed The Solar: “Marcus and Grace have been quietly spending time collectively and he has whisked her on quite a few dates round Cheshire. They get on rather well and have tons in widespread.”

Grace beforehand dated Joey Essex, and left Love Island 2024 with Reuben, who she cut up with weeks later. She “has since connected with Marcus” and is “smitten” in her relationship.

Marcus has been single since summer season 2023. In response to stories, Grace and Marcus have been collectively for “a number of months”. Neither Marcus or Grace have spoken out in regards to the rumours.

However Grace can also be being ‘lined up’ for All Stars?!

What makes this entire saga an inch extra complicated, is that it’s additionally been mentioned Grace is eyeing up All Stars within the new 12 months. Talking of the rumours, a spokesperson informed The Solar: “Grace has been approached for All Stars and we’re contemplating all choices in the meanwhile.”

I imply, she could have been approached however has since turned it down? I assume we’ll have to attend and see which comes first: A tough-launch with Marcus, or an All Stars forged drop. Then we’ll have our solutions!

For all the newest Love Island information and gossip and for one of the best memes and quizzes, like The Holy Church of Love Island on Fb.

Featured picture by way of Instagram / Conor Molloy/ProSports/Shutterstock.