Friday, December 9, 2011

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10.12. (Sat) 16:00 Liverpool - QPR

Andy Carroll and Luis Suarez of Liverpool
Getty Images


PROBABLE LINEUPS

LIVERPOOL
 


Reina
Johnson, Skrtel, Agger, Enrique
Kuyt, Adam, Henderson, Downing
Suarez, Carroll
QUEENS PARK RANGERS
Cerny
Young, Gabbidon, Ferdinand, Hill, Traore
Wright-Phillips, Barton, Faurlin
Mackie, Helguson
Liverpool received a further blow at the heart of their midfield with the straight card shown to Jay Spearing against Fulham, meaning he faces a three-match ban.

The 23-year-old looked to have earned his spot as a replacement for the injured Lucas Leiva but an enforced midfield reshuffle may now see Jordan Henderson in his more natural position inside.

Despite his stuttering start to life at Anfield, Andy Carroll could partner Luis Suarez in attack with the success of their partnership a must if Liverpool are to consign their recent lack of goals to the past.

For the visitors, Radek Cerny will continue in goal in the long-term absence of Paddy Kenny.

Neil Warnock has been known to favour a back five away from home in the Premier League so far and, given he has few injury worries in that area, could field a strong defensive wall.

Heidar Helguson has earned his right to lead the Loftus Road outfit’s attack with six goals in nine Premier League appearances.

DID YOU KNOW?

  • These sides last met in the Premier League 15 years ago, with Liverpool claiming all three points at Anfield and Loftus Road.
  • QPR last won at Anfield in March 1991 when a Les Ferdinand goal helped them to a 3-1 win just weeks after Kenny Dalglish (pictured right) had left his role as Reds' manager.
  • Neil Warnock previously travelled to Anfield as Sheffield United manager in February 2007, seeing his side lose 4-0.
  • Despite being in 12th position, QPR possess the worst goal difference outside of the Premier League bottom three.
  • QPR have just one win in their last five Premier League outings.
  • Liverpool have lost one of their last 12 fixtures in all competitions, but have drawn four of those matches.

Prediction
Liverpool have found themselves unfortunate throughout several home draws and, most recently, their loss to Fulham.
It is their profligacy in front of goal which may most concern Dalglish and yet with the woodwork having been struck 11 times already this season, you feel they cannot be that far from taking their chances.
QPR have made impressive strides in the Premier League so far, currently sitting in 12th, but have conceded 15 goals on their travels – expect them to allow a couple more on Saturday.
Editor's Prediction
Liverpool 2-0 QPR