Liverpool are quickly back in Premier League action as they take on Sheffield United tomorrow.
The Reds have the chance to consolidate their position at the top of the table against the side right at the other end of the standings. United are rock bottom.
Some will have the game down as a formality, especially at Anfield. But that would be a mistake. As they showed during their spirited 3-3 draw against Fulham on Saturday, Chris Wilder’s side can dig in and make things difficult for their opponents.
Nevertheless, as Jurgen Klopp’s time with the club ticks down, you’d expect the ground to be rocking. Liverpool are massive favourites.
Wilder is never one to back away from a challenge, though. And speaking to the press yesterday ahead of the match, the Blades boss has spoken warmly of the Reds.
What has Chris Wilder said
Wilder has generally been positive about Liverpool whenever he’s faced them. Given that he’s lost every one of his Premier League ties against the Reds, you have to say fair play to him for that.
There is a reason for that, perhaps. As he’s revealed in the past and yet again yesterday, Wilder’s dad is a Scouser and indeed a big Red. He has a history with the club and the city.
Despite that though, the 56-year-old has had a somewhat prickly relationship with Klopp. Few will have forgotten their very public spat over the five substitutes rule some years ago.
However, Wilder put that to the back of his mind yesterday. When asked for some words on Jurgen in his press conference yesterday, the Yorkshireman was effusive in his praise of the Liverpool manager.
“For them now to be season in season out, competing in the top division and winning what they’re winning. Just the whole feel of the football club and what he’s [Klopp] done in the community, working in the area,” he said. “I know the area really well, my dad’s a Scouser. I spent many a summer holiday about 10 minutes from Anfield, so I know how they love their football and he’s definitely one of their own and his impact on that football club has been absolutely incredible.
“He’ll be fighting for everything that’s going between now and the end of the season, he’ll definitely want to finish on a high and they’re in a great position on a lot of fronts.”
Liverpool vs Sheffield United team news
There’s no question that Liverpool will be heavy favourites for tomorrow’s game. And rightly so. The Reds could potentially go into the game back in second or even third place, though. They have to win.
As a result, it will be a boost for Klopp to have Curtis Jones back to call upon. The 23-year-old was touch-and-go for Sunday’s win over Brighton, but ultimately didn’t make the squad. He looks set to return on Thursday.
Aside from that, it appears that the game will come a little too early for a couple of other injured stars. Trent Alexander-Arnold and Diogo Jota don’t feel to be far away now, but unless there’s been a surprise through the week, they won’t be available tomorrow.
We’ll learn more when Klopp speaks to the press today. Fingers crossed for some good news.