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Liverpool, still reeling from missing out on their top managerial pick, have a chance to uplift their spirits and reclaim the top spot, if only temporarily. The anticipation for Xabi Alonso, speculated to be Klopp's successor, has dwindled as he plans to stay with Bayer Leverkusen for another season.
Meanwhile, Fenway Sports Group, led by new CEO Michael Edwards, is evaluating alternative options. But for now, Liverpool's focus is on the field, especially after their quadruple dreams were dashed.
March was a mixed bag for Liverpool, marked by disappointment against Manchester United and controversy against Manchester City. Despite this, their unbeaten streak at Anfield continues, a testament to their dominance.
With Alonso seemingly out of contention, De Zerbi emerges as one of Liverpool's backup choices, alongside Ruben Amorim. A victory against Liverpool could bolster De Zerbi's chances while denting Liverpool's title hopes.
Although Brighton has struggled for consistency this season, recent wins against Nottingham Forest and Roma have boosted their morale. Their focus now solely lies on the Premier League, with hopes of securing a top-seven finish for European qualification.
However, De Zerbi's away record against top-10 teams isn't promising. Nonetheless, Brighton arrives at Anfield with a four-game unbeaten streak, ready to challenge their potential future manager.
INJURIES & SUSPENSION
Most of Liverpool's injured players won't be ready for Sunday's game. Stefan Bajcetic, Joel Matip, Ben Doak, Thiago Alcantara, Diogo Jota, Trent Alexander-Arnold, and Alisson Becker are all confirmed to be out.During the international break, Andrew Robertson got injured while playing for Scotland, hurting his ankle. However, it's not a serious problem, and he might still be available for Sunday's match. Curtis Jones also has a shin issue but hasn't been ruled out yet.
Joe Gomez might step in as a left-back this weekend, and Darwin Nunez should recover from a thigh problem he picked up in the cup match against Man United. Cody Gakpo, Luis Diaz, and Ibrahima Konate have all recovered from their concerns during the international break.
Brighton's injury list includes long-term absentees like Solly March, Jack Hinshelwood, and Kaoru Mitoma. James Milner, the former Liverpool midfielder, is doubtful due to a thigh problem, while Joao Pedro also faces uncertainty with a similar issue. Julio Enciso is slowly regaining fitness and played part of the recent game against Roma.
De Zerbi is likely to stick with a winning formula after Brighton's impressive victory over Roma, so Adam Lallana, a former Reds player, could feature in the starting lineup.
POSSIBLE LINE-UP
Liverpool possible starting lineup:Kelleher; Bradley, Konate, Van Dijk, Gomez; Szoboszlai, Endo, Mac Allister; Salah, Nunez, Diaz
Brighton & Hove Albion possible starting lineup:
Verbruggen; Lamptey, Van Hecke, Dunk, Estupinan; Gross, Gilmour; Adingra, Lallana, Fati; Welbeck
EXPERT PREDICTION
Liverpool 3-1 Brighton
Brighton has had success against Liverpool recently, but the timing of the break favors the hosts. We're confident that Liverpool can secure a convincing win and temporarily reclaim the top spot.
