Four points clear of City coming into February, you can bet any Liverpool fan would bite the hand of anyone who offered them such a luxury this time last season. Indeed, you’d be made not to grab one of many free bets on a potential EPL triumph.
Whilst the mood his high on one side of Merseyside, Liverpool need to do one thing to avoid the lurking Citizens….win games. Easier said then done admittedly.
This Wednesday evening The Reds welcome 9th placed Leicester City to Anfield. The Foxes have notched up just 3 wins in their last 9, their last two games ending in narrow defeat.
Klopp will sense blood over their counterparts but will need to beware a smattering if attacking talent the former Premier League hinders process.
Up to their recent 2-1 defeat to City, Liverpool were on a 9 game winning streak. A closely thought 4-3 win over Palace, however, may be a sign that the backline will need to tighten up against the likes of Vardy.
Sitting in 9th, it would be easy to assume the Leicester faithful are satisfied with Claude Puel’s regime. Adding to a terrible tragedy involving their hugely successful owner earlier on the season, the way Puel has managed the side has seemingly lead to low morale at the King Power.
With Salah on fright king form alongside Firmino and Mane, it could be a tough evening for the visitors.
Tactics
An impressive quick high pressing unit last season, Klopp has had to rethink his football philosophy to improve Liverpool’s Premier League chances.
Vulnerable to long balls once players have proceeded to press heavily, Liverpool now have perfect readers of attacking dangers Van Dijk and Fabinho. Their physical attributes have also been massive in making The Reds one of the most feared defensive units in the league.
Saying that, Leicester City will not be shy in unleashing harrying striker Jamie Vardy on the likes of Lovren. If the home side are considering putting in a defensive performance ala their 4-3 win over the Eagles, they may be punished.
Injuries
England Word Cup hero Harry Maguire is likely to be sidelined, with the former Hull City defender picking up a leg injury. Added to that Johnny Evans is a likely absentee having suffered a broken toe earlier on in the month.
Liverpool in the over hand are likely to be without the impressive Wijnaldum and Alexander-Arnold who both have knee issues.
Prediction
Sure the Foxes have ways to hurt Liverpool, the home side however will likely outscore their opponents given their potent fire power.
Liverpool 4-2 Leicester