Stoke City vs. Liverpool- Fantasy Premier League Preview: Gameweek 4
In what is the more intriguing of the Barclay’s Premier League clashes this weekend, Kenny Dalglish’s in-form Liverpool take on the ‘fortress at home’ Stoke City, at the Britannia Stadium, on Saturday.
Stoke City, like Liverpool, are unbeaten in the League so far, and will know that their best chance to defend that record is at home.
Liverpool, on the other hand, seem like a completely different side since Dalglish took over, both in terms of players in the squad and the way they are playing.
However, with Liverpool’s new found freedom of play and their ability to express themselves with the ball, the Reds look the more likely side to nick the three points. Yet, at the same time, Stoke City must just be happy with a draw and will look to play
to their strengths.
Stoke City
The home side will know what they are up against, but that does not mean that their preparations will be enough. However, with their concentrated back line and packed midfield, Stoke could very well come away with a result.
Asmir Bergovic (5-million) has managed to amass 20 points so far and will add to that tally if Stoke manage to keep a clean sheet on the weekend. The feat is something that the Tony Pulis’s side is more than capable of doing.
Defenders
Robert Huth (6-million) is sure to cause the Liverpool back line problems for dead ball situations and will also be the perfect ‘anti-Carroll’. If Stoke do manage a result, Huth is sure to be a player who walks away with a fair share of the points.
Midfielders
Former Liverpool player, Jermaine Pennant, has pace, ability and some serious crossing ability. With the Reds full backs joining in on the attacks regularly, Pennant might just find some room to play his game.
Strikers
Another former Liverpool player, Peter Crouch, is our pick of the strikers. Mostly, because it is unlikely that the likes of Jamie Carragher, Martin Skrtel or Daniel Agger can cope with the aerial threat posed by the big man.
At the same time, Kenwyne Jones has the same traits as well. It is up to the manager themselves and who they wish to lay their trust in.
Liverpool
Pepe Reina may only have kept one clean sheet so far, but chances are that Stoke will be on the defensive come the weekend, leaving the keeper very little to do.
Defenders
It is here that Liverpool can earn solid points. Jose Enrique (5.1-million) has impressed as a left back who likes to get in on the attacks. His value for money and style of play both mean that he is a player managers will want to keep in their side and
so should you.
Midfielders
Liverpool do not lack quality in midfield, but with Charlie Adam a doubt for the weekend after picking up an injury while on international duty, the choice is made easier.
Jordan Henderson (6.5-milllion) may have impressed so far, but he is suffering from fatigue, which is why we would opt against picking him for this Gameweek.
Stuart Downing (8.5-million), on the other hand, is sure to start in an attacking role and should finally convert his performances into points.
Strikers
There is only one name on everyone’s lips, Luis Suarez. The player has been sensational, yet Stoke is one side he may just struggle against.
Seeing how Andy Carroll is the same price as the Uruguayan, and how the Englishman will be looking to respond to criticism, it may just be time to add Carroll to the squad.
However, Suarez is Suarez and one cannot possibly transfer him out, can they?
Our Picks: Luis Suarez and Asmir Bergovic both hold the key to their squads and that is why they are our picks for the match.
Disclaimer: the views and opinions expressed in this article are the writer’s own and do not reflect the editorial policy of Bettor.com
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