Liverpool vs Blackpool- Match Preview
Liverpool will be looking to put on an inspirational performance against Blackpool at the weekend, which they desperately need to finally get their season on track. A big performance is also needed to win back the fans and the
unforgiving British media.
Liverpool and Blackpool have not played each other in almost 40 years. The last time these two met was back in 1971. In the past Liverpool would have been the favourites to win this match, but considering their recent form, the
Reds can be vulnerable for another upset.
Liverpool have had a miserable start to the season and are currently within touching distance of the relegation zone. The 18 time league champions are currently on the 16th spot in the league table. Liverpool has managed
to lose 2, draw 2 and win just one out of their last 5 matches.
The attacking force for Liverpool has been under the hammer, with Fernando Torres not being able to find his touch. However looking at the stats they have been scoring at almost an average of 2 goals per game this season, but Liverpool
have conceded 8 goals this season and that is their biggest problem.
Blackpool are no good themselves, but they are not really expected to be in top 4 of the league. They have lost 3 (which also includes a 6-0 loss to Arsenal and 4-0 loss to Chelsea), drawn 1 and won 1 of their last 5 matches. Nonetheless,
the only positive thing for them this season has been an away win against Newcastle United.
Blackpool who were promoted to the Premier League this season have scored 8 goals so far, which is not a bad return in 6 games. But like Liverpool they have been fragile at the back conceding 12 goals.
Liverpool manager Roy Hodgson will be looking to make number of changes to the team that played in Europa League on Thursday night. Captain fantastic Steven Gerrard is sure to be recalled alongside Danny Agger. Former Fulham defender
Paul Konchesky is still not 100% fit and will go through a late fitness test, while Fabio Aurelio is also still on the injury list .
The Reds have not managed a win in their last 3 league games; the last time they failed to get all 3 points from a game in 3 attempts was back in 2008. However they did end the season as runners up.
Blackpool have not played a goalless draw in last 21 games, having lost their last 2 games a 3rd successive loss will represent their worst run in 8 months. On the other hand, Blackpool manager Ian Holloway has his share
of injury worries with Alex Jean-Baptiste still nursing a hamstring problem, Louis Almond out with a knee injury and Billy Clarke also having a bad leg.
Liverpool are expected to go out with an unconventional 4-1-3-2 formation. The Spanish winger Riera may be used as a left back; Glen Johnson and Jamie Carragher will be at the heart of defence. Daniel Agger will be fitted into
the full back slot, while Skirtel will play just ahead of the backline. Raul Meireles, Christian Poulsen, Joe Cole and Steven Gerrard will make up the midfield, and Dirk Kuyt along with Fernando Torres will be the 2 men up front in attack.
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