Liverpool vs Sunderland Preview: Wirtz Proves a High-Quality Replacement for Salah as the Reds Aim to Defeat the Newly-Promoted Side
Local Time: December 3, 20:15 (UK)
Current Situation of Both Teams
After 13 rounds of the Premier League, Liverpool have recorded 7 wins and 6 losses, earning 21 points and sitting 8th in the table. Sunderland, meanwhile, have 6 wins, 4 draws and 3 losses, collecting 22 points and ranking 6th.
In the previous league match, Liverpool won 2–0 away against West Ham, with record signing Isak scoring his first Premier League goal for the club, ending the Reds’ three-match losing streak in all competitions. Sunderland, on the other hand, came from behind to beat Bournemouth 3–2 at home, overturning a two-goal deficit in a dramatic comeback.
Wirtz Shines Without Salah, Reds Favored to Beat the Newly-Promoted Side
With the Africa Cup of Nations approaching and Salah struggling with form, holding onto the ball too long and lacking passing efficiency, removing Salah from the starting lineup appears to be Slot’s best adjustment. Without Salah, Liverpool’s new signings have played more freely, and Wirtz has emerged as a top-quality performer.
With Alisson back, Liverpool’s defensive stability has improved significantly. Although Sunderland have been the strongest newly-promoted side this season, their overall quality is still below Liverpool’s. Combined with Liverpool’s strong home advantage and their urgent need to boost morale at Anfield, the Reds are expected to take full control.
As long as Salah does not start, Liverpool are strongly favored to defeat Sunderland and secure back-to-back league wins.
Head-to-Head
In their last six meetings, Liverpool have 3 wins and 3 draws, remaining unbeaten.
Injury Updates
Liverpool: Frimpong, Bradley, Leoni
Sunderland: Alese, Diarra, Geldhart
Score Prediction
Liverpool are expected to win at home.
Predicted score: 2–0 or 2–1.
