Real Football Man All of the Football, All of the time
Two seasons ago at this part of the season, this game had massive repercussions in terms of the title race. Who can forget Steven Gerrard’s slip after saying “We do not let this slip” (Sorry Liverpool fans) well this game couldn’t be any further from the title race as 8th play host to 9th in this end of season run out
Not only that but Liverpool find themselves 10 points clear of Chelsea as they look to finish as high up the table as possible just in case they need a Europa League back up plan. A win could see them go as high as 6th but you have to imagine more focus will be on next week’s Europa League final against Sevilla
That means Jurgen Klopp could be given free licence to rotate his squad again, it was a relatively strong side that eased to victory over Watford on Sunday and Klopp will be hoping there’s more of the same Tonight as they give their fans a final Anfield send off before next Wednesday’s adventures in Basel.
They go up against a Chelsea side which will be without their Captain John Terry who has all but likely played his last game for the club after his sending off on Saturday. That came in the last minute of the game as they were beaten 3-2 away at Sunderland.
Not quite the way that Terry wanted to bow out of his Chelsea career but it’s been a season to forget for just about everyone connected to the club. Only Guus Hiddink can come away from Stamford Bridge with any real credit as he looks to hand over the keys to the incoming Antonio Conte.
Two big clubs with not a lot to play for, you get the feeling this has the air of an exhibition Tonight. But then again games like this can throw up surprises. Liverpool can’t really afford to lose ground on the Top 6, then again are they so wrapped up in trying to win the Europa League this season that they don’t really care if they make it next?
An interesting dilemma for Klopp and Liverpool who are certainly going to want some silverware while Chelsea just want the season to end. I’ll go with a Liverpool win as they have looked quite impressive at Anfield as of late.
Papa Johns – If your team scores twice then it’s half price
