Liverpool look to rebound quickly after a 3-0 thrashing at the hands of Brighton as they face Wolves in a FA Cup replay Tuesday evening. The replay became necessary after the two clubs battled to a 2-2 draw on January 7th.
Looking For Freshness
Fresh legs may be the biggest key for both teams as they each played in a Premier League Match on January 7. Wolverhampton has all the momentum coming from a big win vs. West Ham United while Liverpool suffered the aforementioned defeat at Brighton. Both Jürgen Klopp and Wolves' boss Julen Lopetegui have indicated that they will likely shuffle their lineups to guard against heavy legs.
Road Woes For The Reds
Liverpool have only garnered 8 points in 9 away matches inside EPL play this season, not counting the away defeats in other competitions. While this is hardly the form Liverpool supporters have come to expect under Klopp, the match represents a chance to taste victory away from Anfield, hopefully leading to a reversal of fortunes in future away fixtures.
Shootout Superiority
Should the match reach full-time with a draw, a winner would be decided via a penalty shootout. Should that occur, history says Liverpool would have the upper hand as the Reds are a perfect 4-0 all-time in FA Cup shootouts.
Injury Update
Klopp told reporters at his press conference that the availability of Darwin Núñez would be a match-time decision, adding that James Milner could be in the Starting XI and Stefan Bajcetic will be on the team sheet after recovering from a hip injury. The status of the other injured Reds remains unchanged.
LFC Globe Verdict
No, this match is not in Premier League play, but Liverpool still need a victory in the worst way. They have been outscored 6-1 in their last two league matches and even their draw vs. Wolves on January 7th was less than impressive. I expect Klopp to insert some younger players into the Starting IX, not only for fresh legs but also for fresh energy and youthful enthusiasm. I think either Bajcetic or Ben Doak will find the back of the net in a 2-1 Liverpool win.
Where To Watch
Kickoff is set for 19:45 GMT from Molineux Stadium. The Match will be broadcast on BBC 1 in the U.K. and ESPN+ in the United States. Canadian viewers can watch the action on Sportsnet.