Liverpool's Alexis Mac Allister prepares to take his penalty during a penalty shootout
Liverpool's Alexis Mac Allister prepares to take his penalty during a penalty shootout
Liverpool's away form offers encouragement as they head to Crystal Palace needing to stop a difficult week getting any worse.
Sunday's meeting at Selhurst Park comes after defeats against Arsenal and Fenerbahçe, with Andoni Iraola looking for a response before the international break.
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The Reds lost 1-0 at Anfield last weekend, then twice surrendered the lead in Wednesday's 3–2 Champions League defeat in Istanbul.
Scoring twice away in Europe should leave Liverpool with something to show for their efforts, and Iraola will want a much firmer grip on proceedings this time.
Their Premier League record on the road gives him something to work with.
Liverpool have won their last three away league matches, taking maximum points at Ipswich, Bournemouth and Brentford, and they remain unbeaten away in the competition this season.
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|Liverpool and Crystal Palace’s last five competitive meetings|
|Date|Home team|Score|Away team|Competition|
|---|
|25 April 2026|Liverpool|3–1|Crystal Palace|Premier League|
|29 October 2025|Liverpool|0–3|Crystal Palace|Carabao Cup|
|27 September 2025|Crystal Palace|2–1|Liverpool|Premier League|
|10 August 2025|Crystal Palace|2–2*|Liverpool|Community Shield|
|25 May 2025|Liverpool|1–1|Crystal Palace|Premier League|
There is also a striker in form to trouble Palace's defence.
Alexander Isak has six goals from eight league appearances and added another from the bench against Fenerbahçe, giving him enough service could make a big difference against opponents short of confidence.
Palace have lost three consecutive league games without scoring, while striker Jean-Philippe Mateta is suspended following his dismissal at Tottenham.
However, their late equaliser with 10 men against Hoffenheim on Thursday showed they still have some fight, so Liverpool should expect a contest.
Adam Wharton is sent off for Crystal Palace
Adam Wharton is sent off for Crystal Palace
Ryan Gravenberch remains a doubt for the visitors because of the heel problem that kept him out in Turkey. Iraola said on Friday that his availability depends on how he manages the pain.
His return would provide another midfield option, but Liverpool cannot base their plans on him being ready.
Last season's meetings also offer a reminder that this fixture can go either way, with Palace winning 2-1 at Selhurst Park before Liverpool took the return 3-1 at Anfield.
Iraola needs his current squad to deliver on Sunday, while Liverpool's work on potential additions continues away from the pitch.
Liverpool linked with El Hadji Malick Diouf talks ahead of potential bid
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One name under consideration is El Hadji Malick Diouf, according to Swiss outlet 4-4-2.
Their report claims Liverpool have contacted the Brentford defender's representatives, with a formal offer potentially following soon.
The Senegal international only moved from West Ham to Brentford last summer, so another transfer would represent a quick change of direction.
At 21, Diouf offers the prospect of further development, with 4-4-2 highlighting his speed and attacking ability from the left.
The outlet suggests a fee up to £50 million could be involved, but his contract runs until 2031, with Brentford holding an option for another year.
El Hadji Malick Diouf
El Hadji Malick Diouf
That gives the Bees considerable control over any negotiations.
Diouf has made just one league start for Brentford this season, alongside four substitute appearances, with Keane Lewis-Potter currently ahead of him in Keith Andrews' plans for the position.
Liverpool already have Milos Kerkez at left back, meaning Diouf would need a clear place in Iraola's plans.
His age and attacking qualities could explain the attraction, but Brentford's contract position leaves the Reds facing a costly negotiation if their reported interest goes any further.
Liverpool manager Andoni Iraola celebrates after the match
Liverpool manager Andoni Iraola celebrates after the match