“The simmering tension Sturridge clearly feels about his situation at Anfield was evident after he came off the bench to score twice in a 5-0 League Cup win at Burton on Tuesday”, says the Daily Mirror.
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The Liverpool defender knows Jurgen Klopp’s backline will be “under pressure” in Saturday’s lunchtime showdown at White Hart Lane as a result of Spurs’ high pressing style.
Liverpool’s number 10 Coutinho is a doubt for the Tottenham game, with a fitness test due today to see if he will be ok.
“We have different players for that position but when two of them are not available you have a little bit of a problem”.
Liverpool were humbled at Turf Moor last Saturday as they suffered a 2-0 defeat to the Premier League newboys despite having 80% of the possession and over 20 shots on goal. The teams lead by Mauricio Pochettino and Jurgen Klopp are also just two of the unprecedentedly large collection of clubs chasing one of the four Champions League places this season. They tend to perform better against the top sides so expect an improved display at White Hart Lane. Last season for Spurs was something of a model for Liverpool to follow.
Liverpool have yet to play at Anfield this term, with developments being made to the stadium, but Saturday’s trip to White Hart Lane is the last before they return home following the worldwide break.
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Another team who appear to offer early-season value is Middlesbrough, who have a decent chance to build on their promising start when they visit West Brom tomorrow night. Hugo Lloris remains out, with Michel Vorm filling in for the time being, although Pochettino explained on Thursday that he’s hoping to have his captain back after the global break. The Reds will also be missing Loris Karius, Joe Gomez, Lucas Leiva and Mamadou Sakho through injury. Yet, after conceding five goals in its first five matches, Liverpool will be keen to keep things tighter at the back. Going forward, Mane’s return will give Liverpool much more cutting edge than it had against Burnley. With both teams still trying to find their groove, a draw could be on the cards.
