Pre Match: Liverpool v West Ham United (Monday 24.02.20 8PM K.O)

Liverpool v West Ham United, Monday 24th February (20.00 KO)





The Reds return to Anfield on Monday for what feels like the first time in about 25 years (19 days, to be exact). And depending on how City fare in a tricky away fixture to 3rd place Leicester, could very well have the opportunity to go 25 points clear at the top of the Premier League table, with 11 games left to play.

The reverse leg of this fixture was played less than a month ago, having been rearranged due to the minor inconvenience of us being crowned World Champions. It was arguably our our easiest game of the season, looking more like an exhibition than a Premier League fixture, Liverpool coasted through the match and beat a lethargic West Ham 0-2 - And you'd be a brave man to bet against a different outcome this time around.

Hendo could be a doubt, but apart from that I can't see anybody else from the first 11 being ruled out for this one. I don't expect Jürgen to rotate much having had a decent 5 day break after our European fixture in Madrid & I'm sure the players will have a point to prove after Tuesday's disappointment, so I'm going with a slightly conservative prediction, of 6-0 Liverpool

Up the reds!

Straight forward victory for the Reds here, 3  0 or maybe be more. Roll on Monday night !

 West Ham are in for a hiding. Mismanaged club at boardroom level as well as the boot room. I believe they spent close on £100m on Fornal,Haller and Anderson. Wiltshire was signed on a free at £100k per week. Total mess. Noble is a decent player but I be very surprised if they keep the ball out of their net less than 5 times.

I'm predicting a 4-0 win, we'll want to put the first leg defeat behind us.

I think 5-0 simply because there will be a reaction after the frustration on Tuesday

be more than happy with a 1=0 for the next 5 games there is only one aim now get this title won . Great opening post bringing back those memories of 2006 and a force of nature called Steven Gerrard once again doing what only he could.

Liverpool coasted through the match and beat a lethargic West Ham 0-3

Was 2-0, not 3-0

GERRRRRRAAAARRRRRRRDDDDD!!!

Good game to get over the disappointment in Madrid.  Goalshooting practice required and I think we'll get it against West Ham.

I'm sure Adrian will get himself out for some completely unnecessary warm-ups as well next to the away fans.

Three or four goals for the redmen.  Keita to get a game.

Was 2-0, not 3-0

Good spot! Amended

be more than happy with a 1=0 for the next 5 games there is only one aim now get this title won . Great opening post bringing back those memories of 2006 and a force of nature called Steven Gerrard once again doing what only he could.

Not me, We need to start building some proper momentum before we next face Atletico, really find our scoring groove again, including from midfield.

West ham in a bit of bother given their poor form over the past couple months and we should be looking to bounce back after lost in Madrid.

Could see a couple changes but I think we will put out very strong XI, hopefully we can have very professional performance, put away a few goals and take one more step to the title.


---------------------------Alisson----------------------
TAA---------Gomez---------VvD---------Robbo
-----------Ox----------Fabinho-------Ketia--------
-----Salah-----------Firmino-----------Mane----

Subs: Adrian, Lovren, Milner, Gini, Lallana, Minamino, Origi

West Ham defo not a happy bunch at the moment,can't blame either.I guess there is some kinda protest planned against their owners.Hate monday games,dunno if i'll get to watch it yet,anyone think we should start Adrian in this one?

Don't want to be a party pooper but we can do the Harlem globetrotter stuff once we have the Silverware firmly locked up in the Trophy cabinet alongside the 18 others, the CL trophy, the super Cup and the  World Club Cup not a bad year so far.

NB: Team no longer available

Henderson will not be involved for this or the following three matches.

I like Klopp's comments, talking about the Atletico loss stinging, compares to going from sunshine to hard rain. Hopefully the team's performance reflects this.

Don't want to be a party pooper but we can do the Harlem globetrotter stuff once we have the Silverware firmly locked up in the Trophy cabinet alongside the 18 others, the CL trophy, the super Cup and the  World Club Cup not a bad year so far.

Harlem Globetrotter stuff?

West Ham defo not a happy bunch at the moment,can't blame either.I guess there is some kinda protest planned against their owners.Hate monday games,dunno if i'll get to watch it yet,anyone think we should start Adrian in this one?

If they are going to protest, shouldn't they do it at their own ground?

After winning the league if we win the FA Cup we will hold all possible trophies other than the mickey mouse Cup in one calendar year.

NB: Team no longer available

Henderson will not be involved for this or the following three matches.

I like Klopp's comments, talking about the Atletico loss stinging, compares to going from sunshine to hard rain. Hopefully the team's performance reflects this.

Any reason why you think we need a defensive midfield against West Ham at home??  I want to see Fab, Ox and Keita start in midfield, hand out a proper arse kicking

Harlem Globetrotter stuff?

heavy metal football call it what you want, but pragmatic football until the title is ours is all we need we don't need to bulldoze teams and win 6-0
Exhibition stuff can take place once we are crowned for the first time in 30 years League Champions.

heavy metal football call it what you want, but pragmatic football until the title is ours is all we need we don't need to bulldoze teams and win 6-0
Exhibition stuff can take place once we are crowned for the first time in 30 years League Champions.

Has there been a game recently where you felt we were playing "exhibition stuff?" I think we've been as stingy re goals allowed as anybody for the past couple of months. But 2-0 is always better than 1-0.

If they are going to protest, shouldn't they do it at their own ground?

   

sky monday night telly.Also i don't think west ham are to keen on protest banners at their place,we said it was fine!There's also a demo before their next home match.Can't knock em for trying to get rid of those gobshites.

We should give this group a hiding. Especially after the disappointment of Madrid. Need to get back on track so we can wrap up this title sooner than later.

Hendo will be out so I'd expect to see Keita, Ox and Fab in the midfield.

We should give this group a hiding. Especially after the disappointment of Madrid. Need to get back on track so we can wrap up this title sooner than later.

Hendo will be out so I'd expect to see Keita, Ox and Fab in the midfield.

With Hendo out I'm going for Gini, Ox and Fab. Not a huge fan of Keita and Ox in the same midfield as I find us lacking a bit of a combative presence. I know it's just West ham but I still like our midfield when they are a solid platform for the full backs to bomb on ahead.

Struggled to create much in the last 2 games, hopefully we can change that this time out and get a comfortable win.

LIBPOOL TOP THE LEAGUE

LIBPOOL LIBPOOL TOP THE LEAGUE

sh*t on the cockneys, sh*t on the cockneys tonight!

sh*t on the cockneys, sh*t on the cockneys tonight!

Few beer last night mate? 😂

sh*t on the cockneys, sh*t on the cockneys tonight!

Feed the Cockneys, feed them.

Well the least we can expect, is plenty more practice of breaking through the ten man wall. Its never a given, but I do expect us to get 2 at least, and another 3 points. Hammers are in pretty poor place at the mo, bt not expecting any favours from us thats for sure. 70 + possession and numerous attempts at goal.

NB: Team no longer available

I think we should take pity on Moyes and his hammers,just put 5 or 6 past them.

LIBPOOL TOP THE LEAGUE

LIBPOOL LIBPOOL TOP THE LEAGUE

Think you need to put your falsies back in Tame 😬

Good strong team for this game tomorrow, get it done and dusted and let's just move on to the next one.
Let's pop their bubbles and grab another 3 points to that magical 19th title.
Bring it on to a night of floodlights and passion at Anfield.
4-0 

Hopefully we will see a reaction after last week and a more agressivr front foot performance than we have seen recently

Love this team and full belief that the effort will be at 100%

Just hope it turns into quality football and a high score line.

Salah hat trick incoming

Please keep focus peeps, until it is over, it's not over..... yet.
We go the next game, and if and when we do the the league, we can go for the invincibles.
I know everyone is excited, but keep calm and hopfully we can witness history here, and see Liverpool as the best team ever, and keep Shanks dreams come true

The next 3 games should be relatively easy, West Ham, Watford then Bournemouth. Win them and we really are within touching distance. Bitters could be tricky and obviously Citeh away but apart from those the other games are very winnable until the last three, Arse away, Chavs home then barcodes away and even they should not be to much trouble.

This latest Inside Training video, they show the team doing the rondos/pressing drill as usual, then Klopp has this look on his face as he walks off to begin the closed part of training. It was a good look, a very...focused look.

I expect a highly prepared and motivated team as usual for Monday, but maybe with a little bit extra.

Can't wait.

The next 3 games should be relatively easy, West Ham, Watford then Bournemouth. Win them and we really are within touching distance. Bitters could be tricky and obviously Citeh away but apart from those the other games are very winnable until the last three, Arse away, Chavs home then barcodes away and even they should not be to much trouble.

For some reason I feel Everton away, tougher then City away. We embarrassed them with our kids, and they will have something to prove. I do not want that game to be their highlight reel for their 2019/2020 season review video!!

Like to see a midfield 3 of Fab, Keita and Ox. Suspect Gini will start but hopefully not, been bang average for the last 6 weeks or so.

Like to see a midfield 3 of Fab, Keita and Ox. Suspect Gini will start but hopefully not, been bang average for the last 6 weeks or so.

Not expecting to see Keita and Oxlade both start.  I don't think Gini's been quite as bad as bang average.  I think he's been playing a slightly different game and been sacrificed for Henderson to get a little bit more in the spotlight.

Like to see a midfield 3 of Fab, Keita and Ox. Suspect Gini will start but hopefully not, been bang average for the last 6 weeks or so.

Disagree about Wijnaldum.

I think we’ll see Milner start tonight

Disagree about Wijnaldum.

I think we’ll see Milner start tonight

I'm baffled about Gini, he's sensational for the Dutch team scoring goals for fun but seems scared shitless of even having a shot for us, its damned peculiar. He along with our fullbacks need to work on their finishing, if they could all add that to their game we'd be absolutely unstoppable, well even more than we currently are ;-). For example imagine Robbo having the shooting confidence and ability of Chelsea's Alonso, what a fantastic extra attack vector that would be.

I'm baffled about Gini, he's sensational for the Dutch team scoring goals for fun but seems scared shitless of even having a shot for us, its damned peculiar. He along with our fullbacks need to work on their finishing, if they could all add that to their game we'd be absolutely unstoppable, well even more than we currently are ;-). For example imagine Robbo having the shooting confidence and ability of Chelsea's Alonso, what a fantastic extra attack vector that would be.

Belongs straight in the knee-jerk thread, this. Did Alonso happen to score in a televised Sky game over the weekend by any chance? 

Our full backs didn't have their shooting boots on against Atletico but neither did our entire team. In terms of right backs, you'll be hard pressed to find one with a better shot than Trent

Belongs straight in the knee-jerk thread, this. Did Alonso happen to score in a televised Sky game over the weekend by any chance? 

Our full backs didn't have their shooting boots on against Atletico but neither did our entire team. In terms of right backs, you'll be hard pressed to find one with a better shot than Trent

Oh for goodness sake, why can't you accept that someone has a different opinion to you, does it really threaten you so much??

Robbo and Trent are SUPERB full backs but in my opinion they are NOT the best at shooting and scoring goals, how on earth can you even try to argue that. All I'm saying is that its an area they could work on, much as defending is something that Marcos Alonso could and should work on.

BTW I think I could probably easily find fullbacks with a better scoring percentage, shots to goals, than Trent, Marcos Alonso would certainly be one of them. Does that mean I'd prefer to have Alonso in the team, no its does not because overall Trent is the much better fullback but there is always room for improvement.

I think he will go with Fab Gini and Ox in midfield . I still find it weird that we are picking holes in players given our record they are playing for the team not for themselves which is why we are so far ahead in the league. Just get this done 1-0 or 10-0 its still 3 points closer to our main goal this season and for the last 30 seasons. I expect the lads to be bang at it tonight .

Oh for goodness sake, why can't you accept that someone has a different opinion to you, does it really threaten you so much??

Robbo and Trent are SUPERB full backs but in my opinion they are NOT the best at shooting and scoring goals, how on earth can you even try to argue that. All I'm saying is that its an area they could work on, much as defending is something that Marcos Alonso could and should work on.

BTW I think I could probably easily find fullbacks with a better scoring percentage, shots to goals, than Trent, Marcos Alonso would certainly be one of them. Does that mean I'd prefer to have Alonso in the team, no its does not because overall Trent is the much better fullback but there is always room for improvement.

Chill out, I've got no problem with your opinion I just disagree with it 

I'll agree that Robbo maybe isn't up there when it comes to shooting but Trent has got a great shot on him. There's a reason why he regularly gets the nod to take free kicks over two current golden boot holders. I'll challenge you to name a right back in the league with a better shot than him

But more to the point our full backs rarely find themselves in positions where they need to take a shot anyway, last week was a rare instance where they were forced to take pot-shots from distance due to Atletico defending so deep but 95% of the time that doesn't happen

I'm baffled about Gini, he's sensational for the Dutch team scoring goals for fun but seems scared shitless of even having a shot for us, its damned peculiar.

With Fabinho being out I'd say that Gini has been covering more of a breaking up play role - and been allowing Henderson to do a bit more attacking.  No surprise therefore that Jordan has been in the right areas a couple of times to add a few goals.  Couple that with Oxlade-Chamberlain getting more of a game - one of the midfielders has to do some of the ugly stuff.

I would have said with Fabinho returning we may have seen a more attack minded Wijnaldum, but now Henderson's out as well so that may have to go on hold.

I don't think he's been playing horribly - I just think he's been doing a job that isn't particularly glamorous. 

Chill out, I've got no problem with your opinion I just disagree with it 

I'll agree that Robbo maybe isn't up there when it comes to shooting but Trent has got a great shot on him. There's a reason why he regularly gets the nod to take free kicks over two current golden boot holders. I'll challenge you to name a right back in the league with a better shot than him

But more to the point our full backs rarely find themselves in positions where they need to take a shot anyway, last week was a rare instance where they were forced to take pot-shots from distance due to Atletico defending so deep but 95% of the time that doesn't happen

OK fair enough, better shot taking right backs in our league, you may have a point there, perhaps Kyle Walker although he's more of bursting run then neat cross type of player, by God that lad is rapid though. Thinking about I think my gripe is more aimed at Robbo who almost always looks to pass the ball instead of shooting and more often that not if he does take a shot its a bit sh*t, he is however very good at crossing the ball and all other aspects of being a fullback, but if he could just add more shots and goals to his game he'd be sensational.

With Fabinho being out I'd say that Gini has been covering more of a breaking up play role - and been allowing Henderson to do a bit more attacking.  No surprise therefore that Jordan has been in the right areas a couple of times to add a few goals.  Couple that with Oxlade-Chamberlain getting more of a game - one of the midfielders has to do some of the ugly stuff.

I would have said with Fabinho returning we may have seen a more attack minded Wijnaldum, but now Henderson's out as well so that may have to go on hold.

I don't think he's been playing horribly - I just think he's been doing a job that isn't particularly glamorous. 

Fair point, but its almost like Klopp is shackling him a bit, Gini is a wonderful attacking midfielder when he is allowed to be as well as being a wonderful all round midfielder, I just wish we could see more of the Gini form the Barca game more often. :-)

                       Alisson
     Trent Gomez Virgil Robbo
         Oxlade  Fabinho  Keita
          Salah Firmino Mane


Monday night football,  home banker, V Moyes Hammers, I'm smiling already,  only question is by how many, the score don't really matter just as long as it's 3 points,and it will be,

Gonna miss the skipper for best part of a month so I'm bedding in Keita t
o give him game time, plus Gini has been off kilter recently so extra rest Will do him no harm,

Can't see anything other than a convincing win and another step closer,


4-0 Champions


YNWA

OK fair enough, better shot taking right backs in our league, you may have a point there, perhaps Kyle Walker although he's more of bursting run then neat cross type of player, by God that lad is rapid though. Thinking about I think my gripe is more aimed at Robbo who almost always looks to pass the ball instead of shooting and more often that not if he does take a shot its a bit sh*t, he is however very good at crossing the ball and all other aspects of being a fullback, but if he could just add more shots and goals to his game he'd be sensational.

I think Robbo's low ratio of shooting come from the fact he gets down the line and likes to get a cross in. If he cuts in, the angle is often very tight. If he played on the right and cut in onto his left foot, like Mo, he would be more consistent, but with Trent on the right, he's better left alone where he is.
Anyway, just for the hell of it, Im going for a 3-0 win, and Mo, Bob and Robbo to get one each 

West ham in a bit of bother given their poor form over the past couple months and we should be looking to bounce back after lost in Madrid.

Could see a couple changes but I think we will put out very strong XI, hopefully we can have very professional performance, put away a few goals and take one more step to the title.


---------------------------Alisson----------------------
TAA---------Gomez---------VvD---------Robbo
-----------Ox----------Fabinho-------Ketia--------
-----Salah-----------Firmino-----------Mane----

Subs: Adrian, Lovren, Milner, Gini, Lallana, Minamino, Origi

4-0 Come on you reds!!!

Just been reading this about West Ham's allocation tonight. Absolutely incredible

https://www.hammers.news/club-news/report-lifts-lid-on-how-west-ham-owners-have-upset-fans-yet-again/

"David Sullivan has reportedly upset West Ham United fans yet again ahead of the trip to Liverpool on Monday night. West Ham supporters have been protesting against Sullivan, fellow co-owner David Gold and their vice-chairman Karren Brady this season. Disaffected fans are deeply unhappy with the way the club has been run and the lack of progress during the owners’s 10-year tenure, but Hammers fans continue to back the team in their numbers by packing out the 60,000 seater London Stadium every other week as well as filling away ends with their famous travelling support.

West Ham fans are planning another protest at Anfield by wearing black and releasing black balloons & will take just 1,800 fans to Anfield. It is the first fixture this season the East London club has not taken up the full away allocation – in this case 3,000. And a new report from The Daily Mail suggests West Ham did not take up the full 3,000 allocation for Anfield to spite the protests. When pressed on the issue, The Daily Mail reports that Sullivan told protest group Hammers United they would have to come up with a bond or around £36,000 to cover any unsold tickets if they took the full allocation.

“Sports Agenda can also disclose that, following a complaint, co-owner David Sullivan wrote to independent fans’ group Hammers United and told them if they could provide a bond for the extra 1,200 tickets (the small matter of £36,000 that would be returned if the tickets were sold) then West Ham — in the top 20 of the world’s richest clubs — would ask for them. How generous,” The Daily Mail reports.

“Club insiders insist that the reduced allocation is purely down to demand, deny it has anything to do with the protest and say returns have been made available.”

The claims will do Sullivan and co no favours at all with West Ham fans."

With Fabinho being out I'd say that Gini has been covering more of a breaking up play role - and been allowing Henderson to do a bit more attacking.  No surprise therefore that Jordan has been in the right areas a couple of times to add a few goals.  Couple that with Oxlade-Chamberlain getting more of a game - one of the midfielders has to do some of the ugly stuff.

I would have said with Fabinho returning we may have seen a more attack minded Wijnaldum, but now Henderson's out as well so that may have to go on hold.

I don't think he's been playing horribly - I just think he's been doing a job that isn't particularly glamorous.

That's the thing with our MF.
Good players doing jobs that need doing, but which don't catch the eye.

If Gini doesn't perform his role well, Robertson doesn't get forwards half as much.

That's the thing with our MF.
Good players doing jobs that need doing, but which don't catch the eye.

If Gini doesn't perform his role well, Robertson doesn't get forwards half as much.

I expect Milner and Gini to start tonight.

Lets hope it's a routine home win , no grief or injuries, no VAR balls up. Probably won't go 5 or 6 as the boss might coast it if we go 3 clear.

Mane hasn't quite got going since his mini lay off. Expect Mane & Mo to run rings round WH.

Batter the bubble blowers!
 
4-0 mighty reds

                       Alisson
     Trent Gomez Virgil Robbo
         Oxlade  Fabinho  Keita
          Salah Firmino Mane


Monday night football,  home banker, V Moyes Hammers, I'm smiling already,  only question is by how many, the score don't really matter just as long as it's 3 points,and it will be,

Gonna miss the skipper for best part of a month so I'm bedding in Keita t
o give him game time, plus Gini has been off kilter recently so extra rest Will do him no harm,

Can't see anything other than a convincing win and another step closer,


4-0 Champions


YNWA

Even against opposition as weak (on paper) as West Ham, don't think JK would be gung ho enough to start both Keita & Ox.  One or the other, I suspect.

Mane hasn't quite got going since his mini lay off. Expect Mane & Mo to run rings round WH.

Bit harsh; he's played 75 mins of football in total and scored a winning goal!

Full strength side against West Ham tonight. Really blitz them with a couple of early goals !

Anybody know of a place to watch the game in Berlin? Sorry I know this probably isn’t the place for it but thought this thread would have the most traffic therefore the quickest response time.

Anybody know of a place to watch the game in Berlin?

The LIR - The Irish Pub in Berlin
Flensburger Str. 7
10557 Berlin Tiergarten-Mitte

3 points is all that matters

The LIR - The Irish Pub in Berlin
Flensburger Str. 7
10557 Berlin Tiergarten-Mitte

Thanks mate.

Might be pushing it here but do you know any nice restaurants about there? On holiday with the mrs and feel I need to treat her to a nice meal so as I can go watch the reds afterwards.

Love MNF - looking forward to this from 7pm

Love MNF - looking forward to this from 7pm

a few beers a bit of exercise getting off the sofa and going to the fridge and back what could be better. Just want the lads to do what they have done now for two seasons give us everything added to a bit of magic with a loud and raucous Anfield and it will be the perfect way to spend a Monday night.

Thanks mate.

Might be pushing it here but do you know any nice restaurants about there? On holiday with the mrs and feel I need to treat her to a nice meal so as I can go watch the reds afterwards.

It's been a long time and- but Trattoria Fidelia is/was a good Italian place - Luneberger Street 390, Berlin. Looks like it's 3 minutes away from LIR by car.

Even against opposition as weak (on paper) as West Ham, don't think JK would be gung ho enough to start both Keita & Ox.  One or the other, I suspect.

Keita then.

Bit harsh; he's played 75 mins of football in total and scored a winning goal!

Wasn't said in a critical sense.Fantastic player and to rack up the numbers from the wing in incredible.

Just been reading this about West Ham's allocation tonight. Absolutely incredible

https://www.hammers.news/club-news/report-lifts-lid-on-how-west-ham-owners-have-upset-fans-yet-again/

"David Sullivan has reportedly upset West Ham United fans yet again ahead of the trip to Liverpool on Monday night. West Ham supporters have been protesting against Sullivan, fellow co-owner David Gold and their vice-chairman Karren Brady this season. Disaffected fans are deeply unhappy with the way the club has been run and the lack of progress during the owners’s 10-year tenure, but Hammers fans continue to back the team in their numbers by packing out the 60,000 seater London Stadium every other week as well as filling away ends with their famous travelling support.

West Ham fans are planning another protest at Anfield by wearing black and releasing black balloons & will take just 1,800 fans to Anfield. It is the first fixture this season the East London club has not taken up the full away allocation – in this case 3,000. And a new report from The Daily Mail suggests West Ham did not take up the full 3,000 allocation for Anfield to spite the protests. When pressed on the issue, The Daily Mail reports that Sullivan told protest group Hammers United they would have to come up with a bond or around £36,000 to cover any unsold tickets if they took the full allocation.

“Sports Agenda can also disclose that, following a complaint, co-owner David Sullivan wrote to independent fans’ group Hammers United and told them if they could provide a bond for the extra 1,200 tickets (the small matter of £36,000 that would be returned if the tickets were sold) then West Ham — in the top 20 of the world’s richest clubs — would ask for them. How generous,” The Daily Mail reports.

“Club insiders insist that the reduced allocation is purely down to demand, deny it has anything to do with the protest and say returns have been made available.”

The claims will do Sullivan and co no favours at all with West Ham fans."

Feel for the Hammers fans,  having to put up with those Shyster owners, practically evicted from their home at the Boleyn ground into a soulless bowl of what essentially was a athletics track, just so they didn’t have to spend Millions on a new shiney stadium, then compound it by not backing any manager who has had the mis fortune to be hired by said Shysters,

No wonder the fans are Pissed Off, Sullivan, Gold and that f***in bi*ch Brady are happy enough wallowing in the funds from the premier league & tv money, but their ambition of taking WHU up a level or two are as feeble as the bubbles blown out each week from that machine, they fade away and die, something the Hammers will no doubt hope that happens to them.


Anyhoo....I’m up for making them feel even worse by giving them a severe f***in pasting  tonight...


4-0 Champions


YNWA