Both teams started their respective Premier League campaigns with a disappointing result. Crystal Palace lost to a lively Arsenal side, whereas Fulham battled and bullied their way to a point against the reds. This Monday evening rounds off game week 2 (of sorts) and should be an interesting watch after a glum opening week.
Crystal Palace make the long trip north, with Anfield the destination. Patrick Viera encountered a massively disjointed pre season, with much of his squad separated into two camps until the final week. Palace enjoyed a resurgence last season, with a keen intent to energise their patterns of play. With a good blend of youth, potential and experience, he will be hoping for a more structured performance on Monday evening.
Nathan Ferguson, Jack Butland, James McArthur and James Tomkins remain sidelined for the Eagles. Viera could have one possible returnee however, with Michael Olise having trained this week. This game could be the ideal game for his return, with an injection of energy needed after the return (to Chelsea) of loanee Conor Gallagher. Palace are a team intent of challenging for top half this season, and even if they were to lose once more, the bigger picture will surely prevail.
Liverpool need to win, and need to perform to a much higher standard. Their opening game against Fulham showed their deficiencies and perhaps their overconfident ways, with a the West London side intent on hunting the red men in possession. It could be that a traveling South London side will look to show that same drive, and take something away from the title challengers.
Thiago Alcantara, Curtis Jones, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, Diogo Jota, Caoimhin Kelleher and Ibrahima Konate are all ruled out, with Liverpool inching towards an early season injury crisis. Naby Keita was ill last weekend, and should be excepted to start for long term absentee Thiago. Joel Matip picked up a midweek knock, so Joe Gomez may start in order to reduce any more risk. Kostas Tsimikas could be back for the bench.
The reds need a reaction, and to show better control of their strengths. Darwin Nunez will surely start this game, with his potential to score goal and add venom to their attack. Roberto Firmino should drop to the bench, with his squad role reducing further this season.
Jordan Henderson and Fabinho struggled last weekend, and both Naby & Harvey Elliott will be hoping start and add some much needed creative play. Jurgen Klopp was deeply unimpressed last weekend, and will be looking for a strong performance. The transfer window has some time to run, so the reds may be forced into action with their midfield numbers diminished.
Palace will probably still be building their cohesive ways, and Liverpool will be eager to perform under their Anfield lights. With so many top performers keen to make amends, Liverpool should finish this game as healthy victors. Darwin & Naby should be the key performers, with Olise certainly one to watch for the visitors.
Player to watch – Naby Keita
Score Prediction;
Liverpool 3 – 1 Crystal Palace
