Liverpool v Chelsea
Anfield
Saturday, November 8, 2014
Kick-off: 12.45 GMT.
TV: Live, BT Sports 1, Highlights, BBC ONE Match of the Day.
Liverpool (Possible, 4-1-2-3): Mignolet; Johnson, Skrtel, Lovren, Moreno; Lucas, Gerrard; Sterling, Henderson, Coutinho, Borini.
Out: Enrique (knee), Flanagan (knee), Sakho (thigh), Sturridge (calf), Suso (groin).
Chelsea (Possible, 4-2-3-1): Courtois; Ivanovic, Cahill, Terry, Azpilicueta; Fabregas, Matic; Schürrle, Oscar, Hazard; Costa.
Out: None.
Referee: Anthony Taylor. Matches: 9, Y31 R0.
Betting: Home 9-4, Away 23-20, Draw 12-5.
Team News
Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard, fellow midfielder Jordan Henderson and forward Raheem Sterling are all expected to be recalled for the visit of league leaders Chelsea.
The trio were among seven players left out of the midweek defeat at Real Madrid but not all are guaranteed to return.
Good performances by the likes of centre-back Kolo Touré and forward Fabio Borini could see them retain their places.
Meanwhile, Diego Costa will start for Chelsea at despite being left out of the Spain squad to recover from his persistent hamstring trouble.
Striker Loïc Rémy (groin) and midfielder John Obi Mikel (knee) are available following recent injuries, with Jose Mourinho having a fully-fit squad to choose from.
Fullback Cesar Azpilicueta is available again after completing his three-match domestic suspension following his dismissal against Crystal Palace.
Match Notes
Liverpool versus Chelsea is probably the most spiteful game in English football.
Jose Mourinho relished popping the balloons last April, expertly ensuring Liverpool were beaten by the clock and a packed defence, but it is doubtful he will need his physio to enjoy the same starring role this time.
The question now is how Liverpool stop Chelsea?
It is a classic role reversal from a year ago and difficult to see where the hosts will find the ammunition to avenge that painful defeat.
Stat of the game: Chelsea have netted four goals in the opening 15 minutes of matches this season.
Chris Bascombe's prediction: Liverpool 0 Chelsea 1.
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