Liverpool v Blackburn Rovers – Match Preview
Blackburn boss Steve Kean goes into the game against Liverpool still hanging onto his job by thread after being given a stay of execution by the clubs owners.
Beating the Reds will be a gruelling task with Kenny Dalglish’s side keen to return to winning ways after dropping two points away at Wigan on Wednesday. With the Luis Suarez racism scandal currently overshadowing everything on Merseyside their draw at the DW Stadium clearly displayed the effect it’s had on the players. A drab display from Liverpool was summed up by Charlie Adam’s missed penalty as their drive for the top four came to a stuttering halt. Dalglish knows his side need to keep recording victories if they are to finish in the Champions League places. Beating Blackburn, who he led to a Premier League title 16 years ago, will be high on the Scots agenda as continues his rebuilding job at Anfield. With Suarez seemingly distracted by his impending eight game ban Dalglish may opt to give £35 million man Andy Carroll the chance to stake a claim for a first team place against Blackburn. The Geordie striker has endured a frustrating first year since his big money move from Newcastle but could be the man to lead Liverpool to victory at Anfield.
Winning is something that has become alien to Rovers as they continue to teeter on the edge of the abyss. They slipped back to the foot of the table after losing the relegation six-pointed against Bolton on Tuesday leaving manager Kean on the brink. The coach-turned-manager has been given a stay of execution and will be given the opportunity to turn things around at Anfield on Boxing Day. His cause hasn’t been helped by an injury list boasting more players than he has wins during his year in charge with eight players sidelined including goalkeeper Paul Robinson. The former Tottenham man has picked up calf muscle and is rated as doubtful for the trip to Anfield. It’s the last thing Kean needs after seeing his back four decimated by injuries with Gael Givet, Scott Dann and Ryan Nelsen all out until the New Year at the latest. With supporters once again expected to protest against their manager’s presence in the dugout it could be a bleak Christmas for Blackburn.
Liverpool 6th : 30 points
Team news: Liverpool have no new injury worries with Steven Gerrard and Lucas Leiva the only two players sidelined. Kenny Dalglish may opt to rest Luis Suarez for this one.
Key Player: Charlie Adam
Aside from his missed penalty against Wigan the Scotland midfielder is proving to be one of the bargains of the summer. His passing and driving runs from midfield will be key to ensuring victory over a weak Blackburn side.
Blackburn Rovers 20th : 10 points
Team news: Keeper Paul Robinson is likely to miss the trip to Anfield with a calf strain adding to the ever-increasing injury list Steve Kean has to deal with.
Key Player: Yakubu
Despite Blackburn’s problems the Nigerian striker has been a shining light since his move to Ewood Park scoring 10 goals this season. Supporters will be expecting him to convert the chances made for him on Boxing Day and kick start Rovers’ survival bid.
PREDICTION
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Liverpool will be desperate to get back on the winning trail following their draw at Wigan and will be confident of beating Blackburn. Rovers are in freefall once again and will likely succumb to another defeat that could push Steve Kean closer to the exit door.
Score: 3-0
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