Liverpool will travel to Manchester to face Manchester City on Boxing Day at the Etihad Stadium, looking to consolidate their position at the top.
The task is easier said than done. Not just because Man City are one of the title contenders. But, their home form this season, should striker fear to any team in the league. Eight matches played, eight victories, 35 goals scored. They humiliated teams like Manchester United, Tottenham and Arsenal at their own turf and getting a point from the Etihad is a massive task.
The Reds on the other hand have Luis Suarez. And all hopes rest on him. The Uruguayan has been in majestic form, scoring 19 goals in 12 games already and with him, Liverpool fans believe that anything is possible. Further, Brendan Rodgers’ men can take immense confidence from their last away trip, where they earned an emphatic 5-0 win over Spurs.
Defence: Young Jon Flanagan has emerged as a doubt and could be replaced by Martin Kelly. That means, Glen Johnson will take the left-back role while Kelly will operate as right-back.
Midfield: The trio of Lucas-Henderson and Allen has been terrific in the last few matches and they have a tough task ahead on Thursday against the likes of Yaya Toure and Fernandinho.
Forward: In a flexible 4-3-3 formation, Coutinho and Raheem Sterling are expected to take place on left and right midfield roles respectively.
Prediction: 2-1; Both the teams are in good form at the moment but keeping in mind City’s terrific home record, expect them to win this tie, but not easily.
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