The State of Play
Jurgen Klopp’s dream finale of bowing out at Anfield with four trophies under his belt this season came to an end before the international break as his Reds side suffered a thrilling 4-3 defeat after extra-time to arch-rivals Manchester United at Old Trafford in the quarter-finals of the FA Cup. They do, though, have the chance to go to the top of the Premier League if they win this one with Manchester City playing Arsenal after the game at Anfield concludes.
Roberto De Zerbi, one of the favourites to replace Klopp, will need a good burst of form from his Brighton and Hove Albion side to maintain his strong reputation. The Seagulls had some pride and confidence restoring victories against Roma, a consolation in their UEFA Europa League Round of 16 tie, and Nottingham Forest, who are relegation-threatened, after a difficult month or so for the Seagulls.
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Team News
Liverpool have had an injury ravaged squad throughout the campaign but the likes of Dominik Szoboszlai and Mohamed Salah remain back available. However, key men such as Alisson and Trent Alexander-Arnold are still missing through injury.
Brighton have had similarly severe injury issues this season and De Zerbi’s Seagulls are still missing key men such as Solly March and Kaoru Mitoma, as well as Jack Hinshelwood. James Milner and Joao Pedro remain doubtful, too.
Expected Line-ups
Liverpool: Kelleher; Bradley, Konate, Van Dijk, Gomez; Mac Allister, Endo, Szoboszlai; Salah, Darwin Nunez, Luis Diaz
Brighton & Hove Albion: Verbruggen; Webster, Dunk, Van Hecke; Lamptey, Gross, Gilmour, Estupinan; Lallana, Enciso; Welbeck
What they Said
In the aftermath of their defeat to Manchester United, Jurgen Klopp dismissed suggestions his personal decision and circumstances affected the result. “We can talk about my situation as long as you want, I just can’t change my answers, to be honest.”
Brighton boss Roberto De Zerbi described their most recent defeat of Nottingham Forest as ‘vital’ for their hopes of earning European qualification this season.
When and How to Watch
This match will be played at Anfield at 14:00 on Sunday March 31st and will be shown live on Sky Sports in the UK. It will also be streamed live via the Sky Go app in the UK, too.
Prediction
We could well have a thriller at Anfield. Despite being brilliant this season and also having a generally good defensive record, Liverpool have appeared susceptible at the back and they now face a Brighton side looking to reignite their campaign and finish with a flourish as they replicate the type of performances that saw them draw 3-3 at Anfield last season. Liverpool remain favourites, especially at Anfield, but it should be an entertaining encounter this weekend.
