Arne Slot has a number of team selection issues especially up front as Liverpool welcome a free scoring Leeds side with ex-Toffee Dominic Calvert-Lewin looking to frustrate old foes
Arne Slot manager of Liverpool looks on prior to the Premier League match between Liverpool and Brighton & Hove Albion
Arne Slot has a few injury issues to deal with at Liverpool(Image: (Photo by Gaspafotos/MB Media/Getty Images))
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Liverpool’s title defense has been underwhelming so far, with Arne Slot’s side trailing current league leaders Arsenal by 10 points as the new year approaches. They now face a Leeds United team enjoying a strong run of form under Daniel Farke, led by a revitalized Dominic Calvert-Lewin.
A recent tactical adjustment has seen the reigning Premier League champions adopt a more compact and pragmatic approach, helping them regain their footing. Liverpool enter this fixture unbeaten in their last seven matches across all competitions, including three consecutive league wins over Wolves (2-1), Tottenham (2-1), and Brighton & Hove Albion (2-0). Despite this positive run, vulnerabilities remain—particularly evident in their matches against Wolves and Tottenham, where Liverpool appeared unsettled after conceding goals.
For Leeds United, Liverpool’s struggles at set pieces present a clear opportunity. The Reds have conceded 12 goals from set plays this season while scoring just three, ranking among the poorest in the league in dead-ball situations. Leeds’ own resurgence has come courtesy of a switch to a 3-5-2 formation, which has seen them go five games unbeaten. Dominic Calvert-Lewin is in outstanding form, netting seven goals in his last six league appearances, including one against Liverpool in the reverse fixture at Elland Road.
While Leeds have shown they can threaten, Liverpool’s strong home record—having lost only twice at Anfield this season—gives them the advantage. Expect Leeds to find the net, but Liverpool are likely to edge out the visitors in this encounter.
Liverpool vs Leeds Team News
The Reds will be without Alexander Isak (foot injury) for at least three months as they look to have their hopes on Hugo Ekitike to deliver the goods while Mo Salah is away on AFCON duty. Slot will be looking to shake up the midfield too with Wataru Endo (ankle) and Dominik Szoboszlai (suspended) unavailable until the New Year.
Leeds have no new team news updates with Daniel James (thigh), Joe Rodon (ankle) and Sean Longstaff (calf) all set to return by the end of January.
Liverpool vs Leeds Prediction
Liverpool to win and both teams to score - 15/8 (Betfred)
Over 2.5 goals - 8/13 (Betfred)
Hugo Ekitike to score anytime - 10/11 (Betfred)
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