Liverpool take on Manchester City on the Sunday, looking to further close the gap to the top four…
Liverpool welcome Manchester City to Anfield on Sunday, looking to move up into fifth place in the Premier League table. The Reds are unbeaten in the Premier League since mid-December, but will be looking to bounce back from Thursday evening’s Europa League defeat against Besiktas.
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Brendan Rodgers’ side beat the eventual Premier League champions 3-2 in the corresponding fixture last season, and will be looking to continue their impressive home record against City this weekend.
Here are the five key battles which could decide the game:
Martin Skrtel vs Sergio Aguero
The Slovakian is one of the biggest leaders in the Liverpool squad, as proven by him taking the captaincy against Besiktas on Thursday, and he’ll have to be at his very best as he marshals his defence against the deadly Argentine.
The 26-year-old has scored 69 goals in 108 Premier League appearances for his club, making him on of the deadliest front-men in world football. Thankfully, Skrtel is capable of stopping anyone on his day, and his performance on Sunday will be integral to the final result.
Joe Allen vs David Silva
With Liverpool’s current midfield injury crisis, it’s going to be more important than ever that Allen produces for the Reds on the big stage. The Welshman has been left frustrated throughout much of his season so far, due to a mixture of poor form and injuries, but has the chance to fully redeem himself here.
City playmaker Silva is undoubtedly one of the best players the Premier League has to offer, having scored nine goals and provided five assists already this season. Allen will need to keep him shackled by playing the sort of role that Lucas might have done if he were fully fit. The question is, can he do it?
Philippe Coutinho vs Yaya Toure
The Brazilian was rested for the mid-week trip to Besiktas, and should have no excuses for not producing here. Having produced a multitude of outstanding performances already this season, Reds fans will be hoping that their three-time player of the month has another sparkling display ready and waiting.
He will of course be up against the formidable Yaya Toure, fresh off the back of his African Cup of Nations victory with the Ivory Coast. Toure was also absent from City’s European game in mid-week, having been suspended for the Champions League clash with Barcelona. He will no doubt be eagerly awaiting the chance to get back into the action.
Simon Mignolet vs Wilfried Bony
The Belgian goalkeeper has been in wonderful form over the last month or so, and has now kept eight clean sheets since returning to the team on Boxing Day – having previously been dropped in favour of Brad Jones. Whatever has changed in his approach, it’s working, and we’re all hoping that he can keep his impressive run going.
After all, he could well have his hands full on Sunday as he faces the towering figure of Wilfried Bony – who could be set to make his first start for City since his January transfer window move from Swansea City. The Ivorian was the top scorer in the 2014 calender year, and should not be underestimated.
Daniel Sturridge vs Vincent Kompany
Sturridge might have only managed two goals since his return from injury, but he will be desperate to perform well against former club Manchester City, who have been far from secure at the back in recent weeks.
At the heart of their problems is their captain, Vincent Kompany, who has been so assured in previous years. The Belgian defender was ripped to shreds by former Liverpool star Luis Suarez on Tuesday, and now Sturridge will be hoping that he can do the same.
