Liverpool vs Ipswich: Preview, Predictions, and Lineups

Liverpool are set to welcome Ipswich Town to Anfield this Saturday as the Reds aim to consolidate their position at the top of the Premier League table. With a resounding midweek Champions League victory and Ipswich reeling from a heavy defeat to Manchester City, the stage is set for a potentially one-sided encounter.

Match Details

• Location: Anfield, Liverpool, England
• Date: Saturday, January 25
• Kick-off Time: 15:00 GMT / 10:00 ET / 07:00 PT
• Referee: Michael Salisbury
• VAR: Paul Tierney

Liverpool’s Recent Form and Team News

Liverpool are riding high after a dramatic 2-1 win against Lille in the Champions League, extending their unbeaten record in the competition. In the Premier League, Darwin Nunez’s late heroics secured a vital 2-0 victory over Brentford last weekend, pushing the Reds six points clear at the summit with a game in hand over their closest rivals.

However, the Reds are not without injury concerns. Curtis Jones is confirmed out after picking up a knock against Lille, while Diogo Jota and Joe Gomez remain sidelined. Despite these setbacks, manager Arne Slot will look to leverage Liverpool’s attacking depth, with Mohamed Salah, Cody Gakpo, and Luis Diaz leading the charge.

Predicted Liverpool Lineup (4-2-3-1):
Alisson; Alexander-Arnold, Konate, Van Dijk, Robertson; Gravenberch, Mac Allister; Salah, Szoboszlai, Gakpo; Diaz.

Ipswich’s Struggles and Team News

Ipswich Town are battling for survival, sitting precariously in 18th place. A crushing 6-0 defeat to Manchester City last weekend exposed their defensive frailties, and they now face an uphill battle against the league’s top-scoring team.

The Tractor Boys have made attempts to bolster their squad in January, with Julio Enciso joining on loan from Brighton and Jaden Philogene making his debut last weekend. However, they are dealing with significant injuries to key players like Conor Chaplin, Sammie Szmodics, and Chiedozie Ogbene.

Predicted Ipswich Lineup (5-4-1):
Walton; Johnson, Godfrey, O’Shea, Burgess, Davis; Hutchinson, Morsy, Cajuste, Philogene; Delap.

Head-to-Head Record

Liverpool hold a dominant record against Ipswich in their last five meetings:

• Liverpool Wins: 4
• Ipswich Wins: 0
• Draws: 1
• Last Meeting: Ipswich 0-2 Liverpool (August 17, 2024)

Predictions and Key Takeaways

Liverpool’s offensive firepower, led by Salah and Nunez, combined with Ipswich’s defensive vulnerabilities, makes this a daunting trip for the visitors. While Ipswich might pose a counter-attacking threat through Liam Delap, Liverpool’s relentless attack is likely to overwhelm them.

Prediction: Liverpool 4-1 Ipswich

Do you agree with this prediction? Let us know in the comments below and share your thoughts on how Ipswich can turn their season around!