Liverpool's horrible start to the season got even worse in midweek, as they suffered a stunning lost to Champions League minnows Basel. So far, Brendan Rodgers' side haven't looked anything like the genuine title contenders they were last season, and they head into their game against West Brom on Saturday sitting lower than the Baggies in the table.
Liverpool vs. West Bromwich Albion live stream: How to watch the EPL online, TV schedule and more
Liverpool will look to steady the ship after a shaky start to the season at home to West Brom on Saturday.
Jamie McDonald
West Brom have recovered from their dodgy start to the season with two impressive wins on the trot. They downed Tottenham Hotspur at White Hart Lane before smashing newly-promoted Burnley 4-0 at the Hawthorns, meaning confidence should be high in Alan Irvine's camp. Against such an off-colour Liverpool, an Anfield upset is far from impossible.
Key player - Mario Balotelli (Liverpool)
“I think in terms of goals, he needs to improve. It is as simple as that.” So said Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers in his own inimitable style, clearly with the hope of sparking his side’s summer signing Mario Balotelli into life. He’s yet to score a goal since his return to the Premier League, and has netted only once in the Champions League. Not exactly a great return for one of the most capable strikers in Europe. West Brom will be hoping his malaise continues in this match.
Key matchup - Saido Berahino vs. Liverpool's defence
This season could be a massive one for West Brom’s strike starlet Saido Berahino. The England youth international has scored four Premier League goals in six games so far this season, and at only 21 years old, it won’t be long before he starts raising the attention of bigger clubs. He’ll no doubt cause problems for a Liverpool defence that hasn’t exactly looked watertight so far this season.
Liverpool injuries and suspensions
Out: Joe Allen, Jon Flanagan (knee), Emre Can (ankle), Mamadou Sakho (thigh). In doubt: Glen Johnson (hip), Daniel Sturridge (thigh).
West Bromwich Albion injuries and suspensions
Out: Brown Ideye (ankle), Victor Anichebe, Silvestre Varela (hernia), Andre Wisdom (ineligible). In doubt: Sébastien Pocognoli (knock), Chris Baird (illness).
Liverpool will still be without Joe Allen, Jon Flanagan and Emre Can, while centre-back Mamadou Sakho is a recent addition to the injury list with a thigh problem. Glen Johnson and Daniel Sturridge are both in doubt. West Brom, meanwhile, still have problems in attack, where Brown Ideye, Victor Anichebe and Silvestre Varela are all unavailable. Defenders Sébastien Pocognoli and Chris Baird are both doubts.
Match Date/Time: Saturday, 3 p.m. local, 10 a.m. ET
Venue: Anfield, Liverpool, England
TV: NBCSN, Mun2 (U.S.), Sportsnet regional (Canada)
Online: NBC Sports Live Extra (U.S. - English), Deportes Telemundo En Vivo (U.S. - Spanish), Sportsnet World Now (Canada)
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