A strong start from both teams has seen them rise quickly into the Premier Leagues European places.
Liverpool tore Arsenal apart at the Emirates last week with Luis Suarez continuing where he left off last season. He’s scored in both of the Reds games this season and will be looking to keep that up against Bolton. Kenny Dalglish has certainly got his side playing with new recruits Charlie Adam, Stewart Downing, Jordan Henderson and Jose Enrique slipping into the Anfield set up without a hitch. It’s early days yet but Liverpool are playing with a refreshing confidence under their messiah and with Andy Carroll and Suarez up front they have plenty of goals in them. The former, in particular, will be vital this weekend up against a Bolton side who are notoriously hard to beat in the air. Glen Johnson could return from a hamstring injury whilst captain Steven Gerrard is still a few weeks away.
The Trotters narrowly lost to Man City last Sunday but should be encouraged by their performance against the Premier Leagues biggest spenders. They come up against another side who have splashed the cash this summer although boss Owen Coyle won’t be intimidated by that. He’s got Bolton playing some attractive football alongside their usual long ball approach and if they can mix the two up against Liverpool it could be a recipe for success. Gary Cahill will have a massive job on his hands marking Carroll whilst skipper Kevin Davies will have to be at his bulldozing best to out battle Jamie Carragher. However with injuries mounting up and five players missing for most of the season Coyle will have one eye on the transfer window during the game although Sam Ricketts could be in contention after recovering from a shin/calf injury.
With Liverpool playing with confidence and a freedom not seen at Anfield for a good few years it will be a big task for a depleted Bolton side to overcome the hosts.
Key Players
[player_profile slug=”luis-suarez” align=”left”]Luis Suarez – The Uruguayan has stared the season in electric form with two goals in as many games and will be eager to add to his tally against Bolton.
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[player_profile slug=”gary-cahill” align=”left”]Gary Cahill – An aerial duel between two of England’s most promising players with Andy Carroll coming up against the Wanderers centre half. Both players should expect a few bruises come the final whistle and Cahill will have to be on top form to snuff out the ponytailed number nine.
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Verdict: 3-1
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