Liverpool take on Lyon at Anfield in an important Champions League clash. The reds have an opportunity to move back to the top of the group – but Lyon are no pushovers. Having, until last year, won 7 consecutive titles in France – they will be keen to take advantage of Liverpool’s low morale.
History
Lyon have never played Liverpool in competitive football. The reds have 3 points from 2 games in the Champions League group and three points here will be a huge boost to the chances of qualification. The reds are England’s most successful club in European competition, with 5 European Cups amongst a glittering away of European trophies.
Injuries and Suspensions
Fernando Torres and Steven Gerrard missed playing any part in the weekend defeat at Sunderland. With a clash against Manchester United at the weekend, many Liverpool fans and no doubt Rafa, should have their eyes on that fixture. We don’t expect either to play a part in the game although they may appear on the substitutes bench depending on how training goes on Monday.
Alberto Aquilani is also still out after returning from injury.
Form
The reds have lost their last three games without scoring. The rot began with a Champions League defeat against Fiorentina. While Liverpool have still had a better start in the Champions League than last year – fans will be looking for a response for a Liverpool team under pressure.
Lyon remain top of Ligue 1, even after suffering their first defeat of the season at the weekend. They lost 2-0 to Sochaux.
Teams
Liverpool –(from) Reina, Johnson, Carragher, Skrtel, Insua, Lucas, Kuyt, Cavalieri, Aurelio, Dossena, Mascherano, Benayoun, Plessis, Voronin, Babel, Riera, Spearing.
Liverpool are likely to switch back to 4-5-1 for this clash.
Possible starting XI – Reina, Johnson, Carragher, Skrtel, Insua, Lucas, Mascherano, Riera, Benayoun, Kuyt, Babel
Prediction
I can’t see past a Liverpool victory. Lyon will be a really tough challenge but it’s chips down time and nobody is more dangerous when boxed in to a corner than the reds.
Liverpool 3-1 Lyon