Big Match Breakdown: Liverpool v Chelsea

Rivals clash at 5:30pm tonight

Two of the Premier League’s heavyweights go to battle this evening as Liverpool host Chelsea at Anfield.

It’s a crucial clash for both sides as they attempt to keep pace with runaway leaders Manchester City.

A defeat for either side could spell the end of their respective title ambitions, especially if City beat Huddersfield Town tomorrow.

As always, the Coral News Team are on hand with your big match breakdown ahead of the game.

Head-to-head

These are two teams that are certainly no strangers to meeting in big matches. Liverpool and Chelsea have clashed in 10 Champions League games and an FA Cup Final over the last 12 years. And that’s without the 25 league fixtures the pair have shared since 2005.

Last season the Reds won 2-1 at Stamford Bridge before coming from behind to draw 1-1 with the West Londoners at Anfield. Georginio Wijnaldum scored for the hosts to cancel out Chelsea’s opener through David Luiz.

In the Premier League era, both sides are locked on 19 wins apiece, with 12 draws.

The likely XIs

Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp isn’t expected to make too many changes for the visit of Chelsea. Simon Mignolet will replace Loris Karius in goal, while Alberto Moreno and Jordan Henderson could both be dropped after poor midweek performances. Trent Alexander-Arnold will come back in at right-back, with Joel Matip rated as 50/50 to partner Dejan Lovren at centre-half.

For the visitors, Alvaro Morata, Tiemoue Bakayoko, Andreas Christiansen and Gary Cahill are all expected to return after sitting out of Wednesday’s victory over Qarabag. Conte is expected to start with a five-man midfield in order to combat their host’s attacking threat.