Tuesday, January 24, 2012

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25.01. (Wed) 20:45 Liverpool - Manchester City

Carling Cup : Stefan Savic - Daniel Agger, Manchester City v Liverpool
Getty Images

PROBABLE LINE-UPS
LIVERPOOL

Reina
Johnson, Skrtel, Agger, Enrique
Gerrard, Adam, Henderson
Rodriguez, Carroll, Bellamy
MANCHESTER CITY

Hart
Richards, Savic, Lescott, ClichyMilner, BarrySilva, Aguero, Nasri
Dzeko
Jay Spearing is unlikely to return from injury for Liverpool, meaning Charlie Adam should continue alongside Steven Gerrard and Jordan Henderson in midfield. Stewart Downing and Dirk Kuyt are also in contention for two of the three forward spots in the starting XI, although expect Kenny Dalglish to stick with Andy Carroll, Craig Bellamy and Maxi despite Saturday's defeat to Bolton.

City have until 6pm on Wednesday evening to appeal the FA charge against Mario Balotelli for violent conduct, however, the league-leaders are expected to accept the four-game ban meaning the Italian will not be available for the trip to Anfield.

Edin Dzeko is therefore likely to start up top, backed up by an impressive attacking line of Samir Nasri, David Silva and Sergio Aguero. Stefan Savic is set to continue alongside Joleon Lescott in defence, with captain Vincent Kompany sitting out the final game of his ban.

DID YOU KNOW?

  • Liverpool’s home form bodes well for them going into the second leg. Although they have drawn seven out of their 11 home matches in the Premier League, they are yet to lose at Anfield.
  • The Reds have not suffered defeat at Anfield against City in nine matches in all competitions, their last defeat coming back in 2003 when former Liverpool strikers Robbie Fowler and Nicolas Anelka led the line for the visitors.
  • Liverpool are the most successful side in League Cup history, having won the trophy seven times. Their most recent victory came in 2003.
  • They have not won a trophy, however, since 2006, when they lifted the Community Shield following a 2-1 victory over Chelsea.
  • Kenny Dalglish’s team have slipped up since securing a 1-0 victory in the first leg. A draw with Stoke preceded their 3-1 loss to Bolton Wanderers on Saturday.
  • Manchester City have not been flawless in recent weeks either. Since Christmas, they have won only three of their seven matches in all competitions.
  • Prior to winning the 2011 FA Cup, the League Cup was the last trophy City had lifted. They won the tournament in 1970, were runners-up in 1974 and emerged victorious again in 1976. They have not been to the final since.
  • Before beating Wigan Athletic 1-0 in the Premier League, City had not won in four matches in a row away from the Etihad Stadium.
  • Roberto Mancini’s team have not played out a score draw in nine league matches.
Prediction
Liverpool are a difficult side to break down and beat at Anfield, and City will need to dig deep into their energy reserves following a tough game at the weekend if they are to deliver a performance that eliminates the one-goal advantage the Reds picked up at the Etihad Stadium.
Editor's Prediction
Liverpool 1-1 Manchester City