Liverpool’s home clash against Blackburn Rovers this afternoon in the Premier League really is a must-win game for Roy Hodgson’s men.
Going into the game, the Reds sit down in a lowly 18th place in the league table with just 6 points from their opening 8 games. A win today would unlikely move them any further up the table, unless they can beat Rovers by three goals to overtake them (sitting in 17th) on goal difference.
It’s a sorry state of affairs and something must be done quickly as the pressure grows on Hodgson and his players.
But there may be some lift after events of the last week or so. New England Sports Ventures have now completed their takeover of the club, appointed new board members and become actively involved with the club and fans.
There was also a defiant performance away from home by Liverpool’s second string team in the goalless draw against Napoli in the Europa League on Thursday evening.
Hodgson is without Daniel Agger, Dirk Kuyt and most likely Glen Johnson. However, he welcomes the return of Steven Gerrard, Fernando Torres, Lucas and Raul Meireles, who were all rested for Thursday’s game in Italy.
Blackburn come off the back of a goalless draw at home to Sunderland, having lost away to Stoke City in their previous game.
Sam Allardyce is without centre-back Chris Samba, but does have striker Benjani available after a neck problem.
Jason Roberts has also overcome a bug to be fit for this afternoon’s game at Anfield.
Liverpool beat Blackburn in this fixture last season. The goals came from Torres and Gerrard in a 2-1 victory.
Liverpool will unveil several new key members of the club this afternoon, with new American board members David Ginsberg and Michael Gordon taking their seats alongside co-owner Tom Werner for the first time. John Henry is in America and couldn’t travel due to illness.
Kick-off at Anfield is 3pm, so stay tuned to This Is Anfield for team news and how you can follow and watch the game online this afternoon.
Today’s other Premier League fixtures
Stoke vs Manchester Utd (1.30pm)
Manchester City vs Arsenal (4pm)
