Liverpool host Bournemouth in the Premier League on Saturday as the Reds look to respond to a shock setback last time out.
Arne Slot suffered his first defeat as Liverpool manager as Nottingham Forest earned an upset win at Anfield, securing their first victory over the Reds on Merseyside since 1969 courtesy of Callum Hudson-Odoi’s goal.
Liverpool regrouped to open their Champions League campaign with a 3-1 win at AC Milan, recovering from a goal down in the San Siro to earn three points. Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konate were each on target from set-pieces, before Dominik Szoboszlai netted his first of the season to seal the win.
The best of @MoSalah in August 👑@StanChart | #Ad pic.twitter.com/swJgDLdcr7
— Liverpool FC (@LFC) September 19, 2024
Slot will be keen to continue that momentum against a Bournemouth side who have already proven awkward opposition for Newcastle and Chelsea this season. The Cherries also made history on their last visit to Merseyside, after a record-breaking comeback win at Everton. Two goals down with just three minutes of normal time remaining, Andoni Iraola’s side secured a stunning turnaround to take the points at Goodison Park.
Liverpool vs Bournemouth – Predicted lineup and team news
Liverpool team news
Slot has confirmed that first-choice goalkeeper Alisson Becker is a doubt to face Bournemouth in Saturday’s Premier League game because of a muscle issue.
The Brazil international has featured in all five fixtures so far but looks unlikely to take his place this weekend, with Caoimhin Kelleher waiting in the wings to deputise. The Republic of Ireland international was vocal in his desire for more minutes during September’s international break and will hope to take his chance.
The Reds are without Harvey Elliott, who fractured his foot during the international break. The issue, picked up during a training camp for England’s u-21 side, will sideline the 21-year-old for at least a month.
“It’s a blow for the both of us”
Arne Slot gives a fitness update on Harvey Elliott and Federico Chiesa 🗣️ pic.twitter.com/6A6nlYHJML
— Sky Sports News (@SkySportsNews) September 13, 2024
Slot faces a selection headache at left-wing with Cody Gakpo stating his case for more involvement with an impressive performance at AC Milan. Brought into the side for his first start of the campaign, Gakpo was Liverpool’s standout name at the San Siro. However, Luis Diaz has four goal involvements (3G and 1A) in four Premier League appearances.
Elsewhere, Darwin Nunez could make his first start of the season. Limited to cameo appearances so far, Slot said the Uruguayan is approaching full fitness but must improve.
“There’s a lot of confidence in him, Slot said at his pre-match press conference.
“But there are two players for that position and I could even come up with more who could play in that position – he is in competition with Diogo who has done really well. But many games have to be played and there will be enough time to judge Darwin: if he improves and how he improves and if he can do special things for the club.”
Liverpool predicted line up
Predicted Liverpool XI (4-3-3): Kelleher; Alexander-Arnold, Konate, Van Dijk, Robertson; Gravenberch, Mac Allister, Szoboszlai; Salah, Diaz, Nunez.
When is Liverpool vs Bournemouth
Liverpool take on Bournemouth at Anfield on Saturday 21st September 2024. Kick-off on Merseyside is 15:00 BST.
What TV channel is Liverpool vs Bournemouth on?
The game will not be broadcast live to a UK audience. Details of other rights holders can be found here.
