Prediction and odds: Liverpool (3/10) vs Wolves (17/2)
We’re backing Liverpool/Liverpool (HT/FT) at 10/11
When: Saturday, 7th January 2022 – 8pm KO (GMT)
Where: Anfield
Liverpool and Wolverhampton Wanderers will battle it out once again this weekend in the third round of the FA Cup.
Liverpool
It may be unfair to immediately suggest that Liverpool are coming to the end of their incredible run they’ve been on in the last few years. It’s good, then, that it isn’t immediate, and that there’s enough evidence to suggest it’s already in motion. The Reds are struggling to maintain any kind of consistency and while it isn’t directly Jurgen Klopp’s fault, it’s down to him to figure out how to rectify the issue.
Liverpool returned to action with a hard-fought 3-2 defeat against Manchester City in the League Cup. In the PL, though, they were on fine form as they beat Aston Villa 3-1 and Leicester 2-1 in their next two outings – although the latter wasn’t particularly convincing. The house of cards somewhat came crumbling down in London, though, as they were put to the sword in a 3-1 defeat at the hands of Brentford.
Wolves
Wolverhampton Wanderers have received an injection of life in the form of Julen Lopetegui taking over as their new gaffer. However, they also have a lot of work to do in the Premier League in order to maintain their status as a top flight side. It’s set to be quite the journey for them in the months ahead, especially in the cup competitions, where there’s a real possibility they can continue to thrive.
Wolves returned sooner than most to defeat Gillingham 2-0 and reach the quarter-finals of the League Cup in the process. They then went toe to toe with Everton at Goodison Park and despite not playing brilliantly, managed to salvage a crucial three points from their trip. A narrow 1-0 loss to Manchester United was followed up by an extremely competitive Midlands derby against Aston Villa, in which they came away with a 1-1 draw.
Conclusion
We expect to see a fringe side from Liverpool of some description whereas Wolves showcase more of a blend, largely in the interest in squad depth. They’ll know that if they can get onto the hosts and really put them under pressure, there’s a good chance the crowd will start to turn on them fairly rapidly.
Still, Liverpool should have enough to take the lead, earning a 1-0 advantage as they go in for the half-time interval. We predict Wolves will draw level with a nice piece of skill, only for the favourites to get their way late in the day and reach the fourth round.
It won’t be pretty, but all Klopp will be interested in right now is getting back in the win column.
Our tips (all taken from bet365): Liverpool/Liverpool (HT/FT) at 10/11 + over 2.5 goals at 4/7
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