With Man United scraping three points last night, a win today is even more vital as we look to close the gap at the top back down to one point, and further distance ourselves from the chasing pack.
Standing in our way is Brendan Rodgers and his Liverpool side, who despite their stuttering form so far, can certainly cause us a problem, especially with Luis Suarez looking to add to his 7 goals from just 10 games so far in the league.
We got hold of two of Liverpool’s biggest fans, Greg and Sammy, who can be found on Twitter @AnfieldGreg and @LFCFreakSam respectively, and got their thoughts on all things Liverpool, and of course their views on the game ahead.
So lads, another poor start to the season for Liverpool, but its fair to say you have a long-term plan in place with Brendan Rodgers, who worked wonders at Swansea. Are you optimistic about the next few years?
Greg: I wouldn’t even say we’ve had a bad start, we’re 6 points off 4th place, and only 10 games in. Although I would be amazed if we get top 6. We just don’t have a number 9 getting the goals in, but that boy Luis Suarez seems to be doing the job, until January at least. Brendan has got us heading in the right direction no doubt.
Sammy: Yes, I’m very hopeful for this season..I think Brendan Rodgers is the right guy for the job for sure, but he just needs more financial backing from the owners.
At just 17, Sterling is already considered as a regular at Anfield now.You fielded nine English players on Thursday, and a very youthful side, which of your youngsters are you most excited about? Obviously Sterling seems the main one at the moment.
Greg: Sterling, Suso, and Wisdom. All came in, needed no time, brilliant. I’m a fan of Jordan Henderson, despite his critics, keeps it simple, tidy! As for Jonjo Shelvey, if Chelsea fancy doing a swap for.. Anyone?
Sammy: I couldn’t watch the match but.. Wisdom, Coady, Suso, Robinson, Flanagan, Yesil, and Morgan. It has been a brilliant start to all of their careers.
We might leave Shelvey if that’s ok Greg… What are the realists at Liverpool targeting this season, Europe? Finishing above Everton? Or a cup run?
Greg: I personally don’t care who we finish above, we beat Everton 3 times last season, and still finished below them. We struggle against teams expected to finish lower half of table, and need to put that right this season, every game is huge. I’m going for 7th.. But if we can sign a striker or two in January, who knows. We’ve proved many times miracles happen.
Sammy: Realistically, I think 6th place in league should be our aim. As for the cups, hopefully quarters in the FA cup and maybe win the Europa League! Hopeful for the Europa!
Its fair to say Chelsea have an array of talent, but if you have to pick one player that you could have in the Liverpool team, who would it be, and why?
Greg: That boy Juan Mata. What a talent, incredible he isn’t a Spanish regular, shows how superb that squad is. His technique, pass, finish and most of all, vision, is fantastic. But even players like Mata need finishers to make him look good. LFC don’t have many.
Sammy: Senior Side, it has to be Juan Mata too. Always said that I really like him, and him with Stevie G side by side would be brilliant. Youngster, I would go for Lucas Piazon.
Can the curse of the ex-striker strike today?He certainly seems the popular choice for most clubs! Finally, what are your predictions for the game, and who will get the goals?
Greg: Such a huge game for both sides. I predicted before start of season, all the talk will be in Manchester, but the prem will be going to Chelsea. So for us to get a draw there would be great, but we’re their “bogey team”, and could surprise a few. I’ll go 1-1.. Suarez and of course that lad I’m familiar with, Fernando Torres. Hope for an historic game. Good luck. JFT96.
Sammy: I think Liverpool might have a hard time, but im going for a 2-2 or a late 3-2 Liverpool win! Suarez and Gerrard for us, and for Chelsea, I think Mata and (a controversial one) Fernando Torres! JFT96
Thanks to both Greg and Sammy for their answers, though I certainly hope Sammy’s prediction of a late 3-2 Chelsea loss doesn’t come through, but we will see very soon. If you are a West Brom or Man City fan, get in touch, as we will be looking for people to answer before those games very shortly!
There is another edge to the game today aswell, with it being on Remembrance Sunday, where we remember all the servicemen and women that gave their life during wars past and present. Have your poppies ready, and respect the minutes silence beforehand.
The game will kick-off at 4pm GMT today, and we will be hoping we can get a vital three points to close the gap on leaders Manchester United! KTBFFH!
By Brad Smith
Follow @BrummieBrad