HomeFeatured ArticlesWolves vs Liverpool Preview | Team News & Key Players

Wolves vs Liverpool Preview | Team News & Key Players

Liverpool have established an incredible 16-point lead at the top of the Premier League table. The title looks a foregone conclusion, but there won’t be complacency as the Reds close in on a record breaking season. They face one of their most difficult remaining fixtures at the weekend, as they travel to Molineux to face Wolves. The Midlands club usually perform very well in these fixtures, having beaten Manchester City at home already this season. They will be looking to inflict a first defeat on Jurgen Klopp’s men.

The home side are currently in the race for a top four finish, which would rank as one of the most remarkable achievements in Premier League history. Wolves have very small squad and have been playing competitive football in the Europa League since July. Many expected them to push the traditional top six after last season, but few would have thought that would happen this season given their European commitments. Taking the form of Chelsea, Manchester United, Tottenham and Arsenal into consideration, there is a real opportunity for Nuno’s men to finish in the top four. They will be tough opposition for Liverpool on Thursday.
Although they have never won the Premier League title, Liverpool are set to break several records if they continue their current form. They have dropped points on only one occasion and they have built up a huge lead over the rest of the division. After coming so close last year, the Reds look determined not to miss out in this campaign. There is lots of discussion about a record points total and an unbeaten season, but the focus will remain on getting over the line first. Their lead has taken the pressure completely off the players and that is a huge positive for the rest of the season, as they can play with freedom.

Interesting stats

Wolves have earned more points from losing positions than any other Premier League team. They have got 18 points after falling behind.

Liverpool have taken an incredible 91 points from the last possible 93 points in the Premier League.

Key men 

Jimenez
Since signing for Wolves, the Mexican international has established himself as one of the leading strikers in the league. He is central to everything that the team does in attack and his level of consistency underlined his ability. The current striking issues at Tottenham and Manchester United show the importance of having an effective player leading the line. Both clubs would jump at the opportunity to sign Jimenez if one every arose. At the weekend, he scored a brace to help turn the game around at Southampton. The first came from the penalty, while the second displayed his intelligent movement in the box as he found a yard of space. During this campaign, he has contributed ten goals and six assists in the Premier League. This shows his rounded game and how he is crucial to everything that Wolves do in attack. The forward averages 2.4 shots per game and he will be the main threat for Liverpool to plan for.
 
Firmino
Roberto Firmino can be forgotten about in the Liverpool attack. There is no better player that the Brazilian at creating space for others. During a match, it is interesting to watch his movement, as he pulls defenders out of position to open up space for Sadio Mane and Mohamed Salah to exploit. Further to this, he is a threat in the final third as demonstrated best by his finishing ability. The Brazilian averages 2.1 shots and 1.4 key passes per game, emphasising his influence in the final third. Moreover, his work rate is often commented on, as he presses from the front and often wins the ball back in promising positions. Wolves could be fatigued on Thursday, following a heavy schedule up to this point. The energy and quality of Firmino will cause them a lot of problems.

Team news

Diogo Jota could be available, but he is unlikely to be risked from the start. Pedro Neto should continue in the starting eleven. Wily Boly closes in on a return and could feature in the match day squad.
Fabinho could come back into the starting eleven for Liverpool. Dejan Lovren will be available, but James Milner and Naby Keita remain on the sidelines.

Verdict 

Liverpool are relentless at the moment and they will see the next seven days as a great opportunity to take another huge step to their first Premier League title. They have two away games, with an opportunity to go 19 points clear at the top of the table. If they do manage to do this, they will have a comfortable cushion and will then have one eye on other competitions. Wolves have the ability to cause problems for big teams, but they will be fatigued at this point and this could be one game too far for a small squad. It is difficult to see anything other than an away win.
Wolves 0-2 Liverpool
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