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US: 8:30 EST-NBC Sports
UK: 1:30 BST-Game doesn't appear to be televised.
Liverpool welcome Swansea to Anfield on Sunday, off the back of a tough loss against Arsenal, who avenged the 5-1 drubbing by the Reds the last time we played at Mecca. A lot has been made of that win because it meant we were still in the thick of the title race. However, Brendan has said we're concentrating on just getting Champions league football, because it's "where we belong." And so, with that in mind, we look to not get carried away, knowing that every game is a must-win, and we look to continue that form here.
To do this, Liverpool must stop a Swansea side who've been their bogey team since they came up; we've only beaten them once in the league since they arrived in the top flight in 2011, but that win was a five goal drubbing on their last trip to Anfield.
Despite their recent struggles, Swansea have played good football, but not produced results. This led to Micheal Laudrup getting the chop last month. Swansea have now appointed former player Gary Monk as interim manager, and he's led them to 3 wins in their last six. A player to watch is Wilfried Bony. He's scored some important goals for Swansea this year and poses a real threat. Michu is unlikely to feature with an ankle injury, but Jonjo Shelvey is set to make his return to Anfield with his new side.
Daniel Agger is back, making a start against Arsenal at the Emirates last week, but there are still injury concerns over Glen Johnson, Jose Enrique, Lucas Leiva, and Mamadou Sakho.
Luis Suarez, of all people, is on a cold streak in terms of scoring, but that's not to say that his performances have let up. In a wing role, beside Daniel Sturridge as a central striker and Raheem Sterling on the opposite wing, he's helped Daniel Sturridge into red-hot form. The SAS have been tearing it up recently, and even Raheem Sterling has gotten in on the act, scoring a well earned brace against Arsenal, among other goals. The front three is scoring goals, and the midfield is providing quality service. Philippe Coutinho has begun to play well again, and Jordan Henderson is well on his way to completing another solid season.
There's only 12 more stops until the end of the line, and every single match is vital. This is a very winnable game for Liverpool, and they must take advantage of their opponent to keep pace with the rest of the league. The away game against Swansea was exciting, but I'll take a calmer win here.
Some Thoughts:
-I'm glad the Dagger's back. Not only does Kolo deserve a rest, he needs one too. And Skrtel and Agger are probably what Brendan wants to be his first choice CB pairing at the moment. (JAceKopite16)
-Please Luis, score for me. Or at least set up another three. Whichever you prefer. I'd welcome both. (JAceKopite16)
-Swansea played in Europe midweek, so hopefully they're tired. Caught them at the right time I think. (loyal2reds)
-Wonder what the odds are for David N'gog scoring... (loyal2reds)