Ten essential facts to be aware of before Brentford vs. Liverpool

Jurgen Klopp’s team will face Brentford on Sunday in an attempt to maintain their three-point lead over their fellow Premier League rivals.

Liverpool wants to defeat Brentford at home in order to elevate the spirits before the international break.

Supporters could use some confidence about Liverpool 2.0’s potential after Klopp’s squad fell in the Europa League and drew their most recent Premier League matchup against Luton.

Before the Reds play Brentford, we’ve compiled all the information you require.

1. Current events

Ever since their promotion in 2021, Brentford have become a formidable opponent for the elite teams in the Premier League.

Throughout that period, Liverpool has won two, drawn one, and lost the other one of the sides’ four meetings.

In their most recent meeting, which took place in May at Anfield, the Reds prevailed 1-0 thanks to a tap-in from Mo Salah after Fabinho floated a pass to Virgil van Dijk, who expertly headed the ball across the area.

I would say we would accept the same outcome once more.

2. Updates on injuries

This weekend’s big question is if Ryan Gravenberch will be available.

The Dutchman “had a little niggle – knee” and “he was running,” Klopp stated on Wednesday. “There is a chance for Brentford and he will definitely be back after the international break,” Klopp continued.

Luis Diaz began playing on Thursday, and Diogo Jota is anticipated to start on the left wing in his place.

Brady Gakpo may play deeper than normal in other situations, but we anticipate that Wataru Endo, Harvey Elliott, and Dominick Szoboszlai will constitute the midfield three.

Alisson; Alexander-Arnold, Konate, Van Dijk, Gomez; Endo, Elliott, Szoboszlai; Salah, Nunez, Jota are the predicted starting lineup.

5. Never again on TV

Liverpool has not been selected for UK television transmission once more.

Due to the Reds’ involvement in the Europa League, the game was rescheduled from its initial 3pm Saturday kickoff time to 2pm Sunday.

The Merseyside Derby was Liverpool’s sole Premier League home game broadcast in the UK this season.

However, everything will be documented right here on This Is Anfield!

6. The Bees have been quite active.

Thomas Frank’s team, with a relatively modest budget, is nevertheless proving to be formidable Premier League opponents.

Brentford entered this game in excellent form, having triumphed over West Ham, Chelsea, and Burnley in their previous three games.

Due to the Bees’ ability to counterattack, Liverpool must ensure that any backdoors are securely covered. Their most recent away game was a 3-0 victory at Stamford Bridge.

7. Several absences

Goalkeeper Mark Flekken should be able to start for Brentford against Anfield despite the possibility of missing nine players due to injury at halftime last weekend.

According to Frank, Shandon Baptiste and Myles Peart-Harris are “nearly being available for possible selection.” They aren’t anticipated to play right away, though.

Long-term issues will prevent Aaron Hickey, Rico Henry, Mikkel Damsgaard, Keane Lewis-Potter, Kevin Schade, and Josh Dasilva from participating. Of course, Ivan Toney is still out because of his suspension.

8. Were you aware?

There have been 14 goals scored in the clubs’ last four meetings, with six goals from Brentford and eight from Liverpool.

Liverpool’s run of 27 games with a goal has begun with their 0-0 draw at Chelsea in early April.

Ever since October 1946, the Reds have not triumphed over Brentford in consecutive league games. Since then, they have participated in five league games.

9. Tierney has returned to Anfield

Klopp’s closest friend Yes, there was sarcasm, but Paul Tierney is the referee for this match.

In April of this year, Klopp remarked, “I really don’t know what he has against us, he has said there is no problem but that cannot be true.” The two have had their fair share of run-ins over the years.

Following Liverpool’s 4-3 victory over Tottenham, where passions were high on the touchline, these remarks were said.

This weekend’s main VAR is Stuart Attwell, with Nick Greenhalgh and Mark Scholes serving as deputy referees.

10. Use TIA to track the match

TIA’s matchday live blog, hosted by Adam Beattie, will be available starting at 1.15 pm, so don’t worry—he’ll keep you informed and entertained.