Sion v Liverpool: Wounded Reds to prove dangerous opponents

Sion v Liverpool
Thursday December 10, 18:00
Live on BT Sport Europe

Any nascent title talk on Anfield has been well and truly spiked by Sunday's abysmal 2-0 defeat at Newcastle United, a result and performance that seemed to baffle even coach Jurgen Klopp.Liverpool's pressing game failed, and they didn't use the ball effectively on the occasions when they did win it back. If Klopp used the F-word to describe the loss to Crystal Palace, I dread to think what he said on Sunday evening.

Liverpool need just a point to win their group, while Sion know a repeat of their draw at Anfield would be enough to see them reach the last 32, which would be an impressive achievement. A defeat for Sion could allow Rubin Kazan to pip the Swiss side with a victory over Bordeaux.

Poor old Daniel Sturridge - the boy made from Lego - is out again, this time with a hamstring injury. Playmaker Philippe Coutinho is unlikely to be risked as he is less than fully fit, and Klopp may choose to give some minutes to a few youngsters like Jordan Rossiter and Connor Randall. After his hat-trick in the recent 6-1 drubbing of Southampton, Divock Origi is likely to lead the line. Midfield dynamo Jordan Henderson is pushing for a start as he continues his journey towards match fitness.

A draw would suit both sides perfectly, but an annoyed Klopp won't settle for that, and Sion are having a tough time at the moment. They have lost their last three games in all competitions, and have managed just one victory in their last seven outings. Sion needed a last-gasp leveller to draw with Bordeaux at the Stade de Tourbillon, and they scraped past Rubin Kazan. Liverpool represent a step up in class, and they have won four of their last five away games. Even with a weakened side, there'll be plenty of players looking to stake a claim for Premier League starts.

I successfully tipped Liverpool to beat Rubin Kazan in Russia, and I have a similar feeling about this game.

Recommended Bet

Back Liverpool to win at 2.32