WBA-MAD Preview: Liverpool vs Albion

25 October 2013 14:27
Joseph Chapman looks forward to Albion's trip to Anfield

The fixture between Liverpool and West Bromwich Albion in the Premier League is an interesting one.

For the first four years of West Brom's Premier League existence, Liverpool loved playing them. After eight games in the 'noughties' decade, the Reds led the Baggies by an aggregate score of 24-0. 

The run even continued into 2010, when Fernando Torres' solitary goal was enough to extend the winning run over Albion to nine. 

Then it changed dramatically. After never scoring so much as a goal against the Merseysiders in the Premier League, a Chris Brunt penalty double saw a Roy Hodgson-influenced Albion take their first points off the 2005 Champions League winners.

A season on, and Liverpool resumed their old ways by comfortably beating the Black Country side at the Hawthorns, thanks to goals from Charlie Adam and Andy Carroll.  

But Albion have won their last three against Brendan Rodgers' side, including the last two at Anfield. Last season bore fruit for Steve Clarke against his former club, as his players produced an impressive aggregate score of their own, beating Liverpool 5-0 over the two meetings.

Let's hope this particular clash will serve up another exciting 90 minutes. 

Team News

Lucas Leiva may well return to the hosts' midfield after missing the last two games. The Brazilian has served a one-match ban, but also was absent last week due to the birth of his child.

Phillipe Coutinho is nearing fitness, but next week's match with Arsenal is a better bet for a return. Jose Enrique and Iago Aspas are both expected to miss out.

Scott Sinclair may well return to the visiting squad after missing the last two games. Ben Foster is still out, while Zoltan Gera is still not yet fit.

Prediction

This is probably Albion's toughest trip to date. While they're unbeaten away from home, Daniel Sturridge and Luis Suarez are expected to cause plenty a problem for the Baggies. The away side's defence and goals conceded column is very impressive, so I can't see a landslide, but I expect the hosts to edge it.

1-0. 

What do you think the score will be tomorrow? Have your say here at Baggies Banter. 

Source: WBA MAD

Source: FOOTYMAD