Liverpool v Norwich Preview (October 22 2011)

Liverpool, England (Sporting Opinions) – Liverpool manager Kenny Dalglish has continued his susceptible rhetoric from last week, claiming this Saturday’s Liverpool v Norwich City clash will be as tough for the Reds as last weekend’s North West derby against Manchester United. The way that the newly promoted club has been playing as of late, the Scottish manager might actually not be too far off.

Luis Suarez has been under scrutiny following Evra and Ferguson's claims

Liverpool v Norwich

Liverpool Team News & Stats

Despite standing in 5th place on 14 points through 8 games, and having just missed out on a victory against Manchester United – Liverpool fans will still feel weary about their chances of contending for the title this season. Sir Alex Ferguson elected to field many of his fringe players in last week’s match, and even then Liverpool were hardly pressing the action. A midweek loss to Rangers in a friendly certainly didn’thelp thing, but at least the Reds have stringed together a nice unbeaten streak following 2 demoralizing losses to Stoke and Tottenham. Steven Gerrard’s return was felt from the get-go in his first start for Liverpool in over 6 months, with the England international admitting that the prospect of retirement did cross his mind through his rehabilitation process. Always controversial striker Luis Suarez will be under close watch after Evra claiming the Liverpool number 7 used racial slurs against him. Alex Ferguson added to the blow by claiming Suarez was prone to diving. Suarez should at least have some support from Andy Carroll this time around, who will most likely replace Lucas Leiva in the starting lineup following the defensive midfielder’s injury as the Reds make the transition back to a more daring 4-4-2 formation.

Norwich Team News & Stats

Norwich have been among the surprise stories this season as the newly promoted side not only is playing some attractive football, but they’re backing it up with good results. They stand on 11 points through 8 games, and with a 2 margin victory against their opponents on Saturday could actually overtake Liverpool in the standings. After going winless in their first 5 matches, Norwich have won 3 of their last 4, with their lone loss coming in a match at Old Trafford. Two former Liverpool players in Daniel Ayala and Zak Whitebread will be unable to play against their former clubs with Steve Morison, James Vaughan and Elliot Ward among the other absentees.

Liverpool v Norwich Betting Odds / Tips and Prediction:

For those looking to bet on Liverpool v Norwich, odds are as follows: Liverpool to beat Norwich odds is priced at 2/7, the draw is given 9/2 while Norwich to beat Liverpool is valued at 10/1. Having just lost once in their last 14 home games, it would be improbable to expect Norwich to get much of a result against a Liverpool side that is boasting with talent. Our Liverpool v Norwich City prediction is for the Reds to add to their 4 match winning streak against Norwich – you can bet on Liverpool to win at 2/7 on Bet365.

Tune in at 16:30 GMT on Saturday to watch Liverpool vs Norwich live. Let us know your Liverpool v Norwich score predictions in the comments below.