“I Really Like Him” – Nottingham Forest’s Key Threat Revealed Ahead of Liverpool Clash | OneFootball

Liverpool vs Nottingham Forest: Premier League Clash Preview

The Premier League is back with Liverpool set to take on Nottingham Forest, and expectations are high. On Anfield Index’s Daily Red Podcast, Dave Hendrick provided key insights into Liverpool’s preparation and what to expect from this encounter. Both teams have a lot at stake as they continue their campaigns, and fans are eager to see how the match unfolds. This blog will analyse the build-up to the game, touching on player fitness, Forest’s squad dynamics, and the broader Premier League context.

Liverpool’s Fitness Concerns: Who Will Feature?

As Liverpool prepares to host Nottingham Forest at Anfield, fitness concerns loom over some of the key players. Dave Hendrick voiced particular concerns about Alexis Mac Allister, stating, “There’s definitely one significant concern over Alexis Mac Allister… it might be wise to give him the rest tomorrow.” The Argentine has been instrumental in Liverpool’s midfield, but heavy minutes during the international break may see him benched for this fixture.

Hendrick suggests that Curtis Jones might step in to replace Mac Allister. Jones, who missed the start of the season due to injury, “is now fully fit and probably would have started the season in the team if not for the injury.” A Jones-Gravenberch combination in midfield could offer Liverpool a fresh approach in their battle against Forest.

Notably, Harvey Elliott remains Liverpool’s only player confirmed to be sidelined due to injury. “He’s the only player we’re missing,” Hendrick pointed out, emphasising that the squad is otherwise in good shape as they head into the weekend fixture.

Photo: IMAGO

Nottingham Forest’s Key Players and Formation Questions

Nottingham Forest will arrive at Anfield without some of their key players, including Danilo, who is out with an ankle injury until the new year. According to Hendrick, “They have a significant doubt over Willy Boly… but I think Murillo and Niakhaté is the most likely centre-back pairing.” Forest’s backline has proven resilient in recent matches, but the absence of Boly may weaken their defence.

Hendrick went on to discuss Forest’s potential switch to a back three, which could benefit players like Neco Williams and Ola Aina, who are more suited to wing-back roles. He noted, “I think a back three suits Neco Williams more. They’re more wing-backs than wingers, neither of them are particularly good defensively.” This tactical shift could be crucial as Forest looks to stifle Liverpool’s relentless attack.

Forest’s Midfield and Attack: Missing Pieces?

Forest’s midfield will likely suffer from the absence of key player Danilo, which Hendrick sees as a significant blow: “If they’re missing Sangaré and Danilo, that’s a huge blow.” The duo’s absence might force Forest manager Steve Cooper to reshuffle his midfield. While Yates and Dominguez are available, neither is seen as a like-for-like replacement for Danilo’s dynamic presence.

As for their attack, Forest boasts exciting players like Anthony Elanga and Callum Hudson-Odoi. Hendrick highlighted his admiration for Elanga, saying, “I really like Elanga, I think he’s very, very good. I wouldn’t be against us having a look at Elanga for depth.” Elanga’s ability to time his runs and deliver dangerous crosses could pose a threat to Liverpool’s defence, especially if they are caught out of position.

However, Forest’s strikers remain an area of concern. Hendrick wasn’t impressed, stating bluntly, “The strikers are just average.” Despite Chris Wood and Taiwo Awoniyi being big and physical, their inconsistency may prevent Forest from capitalising on their chances in front of goal.

The Premier League Landscape

As the season heats up, every point becomes crucial, especially for Liverpool, who are vying to keep pace with title challengers. Nottingham Forest, on the other hand, will be eager to avoid slipping into the lower half of the table. With both teams needing a result, this clash promises to be a tense encounter.

Hendrick shared his broader views on the Premier League’s competitive nature. They agreed that injuries have played a pivotal role in shaping the early stages of the season. As Hendrick noted, “Last season, we saw this with Arsenal all season long… every time you were looking at an Arsenal game, the other team was missing somebody important.”

This weekend’s match against Nottingham Forest will give Liverpool a chance to consolidate their position near the top, especially with potential slip-ups from other rivals on the horizon. As Hendrick optimistically put it, “Wouldn’t it be wonderful if we beat Forest, beat Milan, and then beat Bournemouth?”

Conclusion

Liverpool’s clash with Nottingham Forest in the Premier League promises to be a captivating affair. While fitness concerns hover over key players like Alexis Mac Allister, Curtis Jones and Ryan Gravenberch offer solid alternatives. On the other side, Forest faces their own challenges, particularly in defence and midfield, but they still have players like Elanga and Hudson-Odoi who can make an impact.

With much on the line for both teams, this is a must-watch fixture that could shape the trajectory of their respective seasons. Liverpool, aiming to continue their momentum, will need to be wary of an unpredictable Forest side that is capable of springing surprises, even without some of their stars.