Andoni Iraola’s Liverpool remain unbeaten but winless this season and will hope to claim their first three points when they visit newly promoted Ipswich Town at Portman Road on Friday night.
The Reds came from behind twice to draw at Newcastle United on the opening day before repeating the feat against Nottingham Forest at Anfield in week 2.
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Ipswich beat Sunderland in their opener but suffered a heavy defeat away to Manchester United and enter this game with three points under Gary O’Neil.
A point against Liverpool would be a massive result for the Tractor Boys, while anything less than a win for the visitors will raise further questions about Iraola’s early reign.
Ipswich Town could again be without Florentino Luis, Azor Matusiwa, Jack Taylor, Jaden Philogene-Bidace and Emersonn, who has impressed since arriving at Portman Road.
Manager O’Neil faces an anxious wait to discover the severity of the injury that forced Emersonn off in the 5-2 defeat at Manchester United.
O’Neil said: “We’re hopeful it’s not serious. It was like a landing and a jarring of the knee. It was a bit too painful for him to carry on. It was a blow, of course.
“But we’re hopeful that it’s not going to be anything too serious. I’m hoping that when we get in tomorrow and he’s checked, he’s feeling a bit better. Obviously it could be anything at this stage. But, initial signs, we’re hopeful.”
Exequiel Palacios and Zian Flemming could make their full debuts, while Julio Enciso, Chuba Akpom and Sasa Lukic have made positive starts.
Liverpool are awaiting the debut of expensive new signing Bradley Barcola and could soon welcome Federico Chiesa back into the matchday squad.
Joe Gomez is nearing a return from injury, while Giovanni Leoni, Hugo Ekitike and Conor Bradley are not expected back anytime soon.
Liverpool completed the signing of Barcola on Monday, and the Frenchman could make his debut this week. Barcola said: “Honestly, as soon as possible. I worked hard during the holidays, I did everything I could to stay fit as much as possible, so I feel ready already.
“I think the coach or the medical [team] will take time, but honestly I think I’m ready to help the team as soon as possible.
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