Paul Merson has predicted Liverpool to beat Nottingham Forest this weekend despite never beating them under Arne Slot.
Liverpool will be keen to avenge themselves after the 1-0 defeat at Anfield earlier this season, but after Forest’s impressive 3-0 win over Fenerbache, it will not be a simple matter..
It’s clear that the Reds are playing in better form than earlier this season, but they are by no means a polished unit. There remains a lot to be desired from Liverpool this season, but there are already improvements.
Merson noted one major improvement in his column for Sportskeeda, writing: “Ibrahima Konate and Mohamed Salah starting to look like their old selves has helped Liverpool.
“You don’t play for Liverpool if you’re not a good defender, so Konate must have the trust of everyone at the club. Otherwise, Liverpool would have gone all in for Guehi.”
Man City signed the Englishman, agreeing to pay an initial £20m, according to Sky Sports.
Merson says Liverpool’s starting XI is more consistent after a period of selection uncertainty
Liverpool’s best starting XI wasn’t clear – not to fans or manager Arne Slot until recently. At the start of the season, it was blatantly clear that the Dutch manager had no idea what his best team looked like.
Wayne Rooney thinks Arne Slot's days at Liverpool could be numbered ??? pic.twitter.com/3GBaoM237q
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With the rise of Florian Wirtz and Hugo Ekitike, this has become clearer while Salah’s return form has certainly helped the Reds in terms of confidence and consistency.
He stated: “This is a humungous game at both ends of the table. Vitor Pereira has taken over from Sean Dyche at Nottingham Forest, and he’ll be under pressure.
“Forest have to start winning games, draws won’t be enough from now on. Before this clash against Liverpool, they have to travel to Fenerbahce for their Europa League game. That could take a toll on them.
“I think Forest have a good chance of staying up because they have decent fixtures coming up. But they must look to get a result against Liverpool this weekend to set the tone for it.
“The Liverpool line-up also looks quite settled now. Few weeks ago, we had no idea who would be in the starting XI. But now, at least nine players are nailed on and that has made a difference to them. I expect a comfortable win.”