Liverpool have their eyes set on a first trip to the new Wembley, however they must see off Man City tonight at Anfield after beating the Citizens 1-0 on their own turf in the first leg. In the final, Championship side Cardiff City await the winner of tonight’s semi-final. Liverpool come into the game after suffering a demoralizing defeat at the hands of relegation threatened Bolton Wanderers on Saturday, while top of the table Man City will be in full of confidence after running out winners against title rivals Tottenham Hotspur.
The Reds have no fresh injury concerns but Kenny Dalglish is expected to make a handful of changes after defeat at Bolton. Jay Spearing is the only doubt, while Luis Suarez continues his suspension. As for the Citizens, Vincent Kompany is suspended while Mario Balotelli will miss out if City decide not to appeal against his 4 match ban.
Steven Gerrard was Liverpool’s hero at the Etihad in the semi-final first leg when the inspirational skipper scored the only game from the penalty spot. The previous game between the two sides at Anfield ended in a highly entertaining draw, in which Lucas Leiva was the stand-out performer. The Brazilian will prove to be a huge miss for Dalglish’s men tonight, especially given the fact that Liverpool have no holding midfielder in the squad if Spearing misses out.
Liverpool hold the advantage coming into the second leg after Gerrard’s penalty at the Etihad.
Probable Starting XI’s:
Liverpool: Reina; Kelly, Skrtel, Agger, Enrique; Spearing, Gerrard; Kuyt, Henderson, Bellamy; Carroll.
Man City: Hart; Richards, Savic, Lescott, Clichy; Barry, Silva, Milner, Nasri; Aguero, Dzeko.
Prediction:
Liverpool 1-1 Man City
Its been 6 long years since Liverpool last won silverware, so its great to see us on the brink of winning a trophy again. The Kop will be in full voice without a doubt and hopefully they will cheer on the Reds to victory.
On Twitter – @UmarKhurrum