Liverpool vs Sheffield United tips and predictions: Reds target goal difference in title race

Liverpool fired off 30 shots against Brighton, the most the Seagulls have faced in the Premier League, producing a wealth of quality chances in each half.

Luis Diaz cancelled Danny Welbeck’s early screamer before Mohamed Salah slotted a crisp passing move beyond Bart Verbruggen.

The Reds seized control of the Premier League table with the 2-1 win at Anfield and remained there thanks to a handy 0-0 draw between Man City and Arsenal.

Sheffield United were on their way to a rare win on Saturday as a Ben Brereton-Diaz brace put them 3-1 up against visitors Fulham.

But the Blades let a two-goal lead slip for the second time in as many matches and find themselves seven points adrift of safety.

Before those teasing draws, Chris Wilder’s set were hit for six by Arsenal, five by Brighton on two occasions, five by Aston Villa and shipped three to Crystal Palace.

Nothing other than the luck of the draw can prevent the Reds from running riot at Anfield, particularly if they find an early goal.

The result feels like a foregone conclusion but there’s plenty of motivation to run up the score as Arsenal’s goal difference is six better.

A thumping win, likely spearheaded by Mo Salah, could also mean Man City must make up four points to leapfrog them.

 

Team news

Joel Matip, Stefan Bajcetic, Trent Alexander-Arnold, Alisson, Diogo Jota and Thiago Alcantara are unavailable due to injury.

Curtis Jones and Andy Robertson are considered 50/50 and will be assessed. 

Max Lowe, Rhys Norrington-Davies, Chris Basham, John Egan, George Baldock, Rhian Brewster, Daniel Jebbison and Tom Davies are ruled out.

Cameron Archer’s return would add some dynamism to the Blades’ attack but he’ll be a game-time decision.

 

Key stats

- Liverpool are averaging 3.12 goals per game at Anfield this season
- Liverpool haven’t conceded from open play in six meetings with Sheffield United
- Sheffield United have conceded 33 goals in their last 11 games
- Sheffield United have been outscored 22-2 by top-half teams in the first half of Premier League matches

 

Suggested bets

Time of third goal: Under 70 minutes

Liverpool to win to nil

Liverpool: Over 3.5 goals

Luis Diaz to score