Liverpool will look to bounce back from a disappointing defeat to Aston Villa in the FA Cup semifinal last weekend with a win over West Bromwich Albion in the Premier League on Saturday. Brendan Rodgers’ side are unlikely to break into the top four after a poor campaign, though they’ll be looking to open up a bigger gap over Tottenham Hotspur and Southampton below them. At present, there’s a very real risk of the Reds dropping out of the European spots altogether.
West Brom vs. Liverpool 2015 live stream: Time, TV schedule and how to watch online
Liverpool will look to cement their fifth place position.
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They go up against a West Brom team that looked to be slipping into relegation trouble up until last weekend, when Tony Pulis’ men recorded a much-needed 2-0 win away at in-form Crystal Palace. Now, the Baggies look to be pretty much safe -- something Liverpool will be hoping leads to complacency when they face off at the Hawthorns.
Key player - Philippe Coutinho (Liverpool)
Perhaps the only Liverpool player who will end this season with their reputation having been enhanced is attacker Philippe Coutinho. The former Inter Milan man has established himself as the Reds' biggest attacking threat in a season in which Mario Balotelli and Raheem Sterling have largely failed to impress, and Daniel Sturridge has struggled with constant injuries. The Brazilian will likely be the biggest threat to West Brom's defence again in this game.
Key Matchup - Saido Berahino vs. the Liverpool defence
However, Coutinho's not the only impressive attacker that will take to the field on Saturday. West Brom youngster Saido Berahino will be looking to build upon his 12 goals so far this season, and end a goal drought stretching back to early March. He's quick and an excellent finisher, and could cause problems for Liverpool's not-exactly-watertight back line.
West Bromwich Albion injuries and suspensions
Out: Ben Foster (knee), Youssouf Mulumbu (suspended). In doubt: Craig Dawson (knee).
Liverpool injuries and suspensions
Out: Mamadou Sakho (hamstring), Daniel Sturridge (hip), Lucas Leiva (thigh). In doubt: Adam Lallana (groin).
West Brom midfielder Youssouf Mulumbu is out through suspension, and joins the long-term injured Baggies goalkeeper Ben Foster on the sidelines. Defender Craig Dawson faces a late fitness test. Liverpool, meanwhile, will still be without defender Mamadou Sakho, midfielder Lucas Leiva and striker Daniel Sturridge, though Adam Lallana could be involved after a groin injury.
Match Date/Time: Saturday, 10 a.m. ET, 3 p.m. local
Venue: The Hawthorns, West Bromwich, England
TV: Directv (U.S.), TSN2 (Canada)
Online: NBC Sports Live Extra (U.S.)
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