
Despite a strong performance throughout the season, including holding onto a top-two spot since November, Liverpool faced a setback against Manchester United. They managed to salvage a point thanks to Mohamed Salah's late penalty, but it wasn't the win they were hoping for.
Now, they face Crystal Palace, aiming to turn things around after a disappointing Europa League defeat to Atalanta. The Reds are keen to secure a win and maintain their title hopes alive, especially with Arsenal leading only on goal difference.
On the other hand, Crystal Palace is looking to upset Liverpool's plans and secure their first win against them since 2017. Under new boss Oliver Glasner, they've had a mixed run of results, with only two points from their last five matches. Despite sitting comfortably above the relegation zone, they're aware that they need to start picking up points to secure their safety in the league.
With both teams eager for a win, Sunday's match promises to be an intense showdown with significant implications for the Premier League title race and Crystal Palace's fight for survival.
INJURIES & SUSPENSION
Liverpool's injury concerns persist as they prepare for Sunday's match. Alisson Becker, their main goalkeeper, is nearing a return but is unlikely to be fit in time. However, Trent Alexander-Arnold is back in contention after being on the bench against Atalanta and is eager to feature in the starting lineup.Thiago Alcantara and Joel Matip remain sidelined, but Ibrahima Konate is available to partner Virgil van Dijk in defense. In midfield, there's competition among players like Alexis Mac Allister, Wataru Endo, Dominik Szoboszlai, Ryan Gravenberch, Harvey Elliott, and Curtis Jones for a starting spot.
Up front, the familiar trio of Luis Diaz, Mohamed Salah, and Darwin Nunez may lead the attack once again. Despite competition from Cody Gakpo and the returning Diogo Jota, this trio has been prolific, scoring a combined 54 goals across all competitions this season.
Crystal Palace, on the other hand, are also dealing with injury woes. Several key players like Sam Johnstone, Marc Guehi, Chris Richards, Rob Holding, Matheus Franca, and Cheick Doucoure are set to remain unavailable.
This means they'll likely field a makeshift defense with Joel Ward, Joachim Andersen, and midfielder Jefferson Lerma forming the back three. In midfield, Will Hughes and Adam Wharton are expected to partner up once again.
Up front, Jean-Philippe Mateta and Odsonne Edouard are vying for the striking role, with Mateta likely to start after his recent goal-scoring form. Michael Olise and Eberechi Eze will provide attacking support, with Olise hoping for a starting spot after being a substitute in the previous match.
POSSIBLE LINE-UPS
Liverpool possible starting lineup:Kelleher; Alexander-Arnold, Konate, Van Dijk, Robertson; Mac Allister, Endo, Szoboszlai; Salah, Nunez, Diaz
Crystal Palace possible starting lineup:
Henderson; Ward, Andersen, Lerma; Munoz, Wharton, Hughes, Mitchell; Olise, Mateta, Eze
EXPERT PREDICTION
Liverpool 2-0 Crystal Palace