“I expect this to be close” - Chris Sutton predicts scoreline as Liverpool return to Premier League action against Crystal Palace
Chris Sutton has backed Liverpool to secure all three points in their Premier League fixture against Crystal Palace on Saturday (5 October). The pundit has predicted a 2-1 scoreline in favor of the Reds.
Arne Slot has had an excellent start to his debut season in charge at Anfield. The Reds lead the league table by a point ahead of Manchester City (2nd) and Arsenal (3rd).
Meanwhile, Palace have had quite the opposite turn of events, failing to secure a victory in six league fixtures so far. Oliver Glasner's side have recorded three draws and losses apiece.
Sutton believes Liverpool, who won 2-0 in their Champions League game against Bologna this week, will continue their impressive form on the road at Selhurst Park. The former Chelsea forward told BBC Sport:
"It is always a balancing act for clubs in the Champions League and the Premier League, but especially so for Liverpool here, away from home and with the early kick-off. For Arne Slot's side it is just about getting a win, however they do it, going into the international break.
"They got over the line against Bologna on Wednesday without being at their best and, while I expect this to be close, I do see them getting the job done against a Crystal Palace team who are in a bit of bother really.
"Along with Wolves, Southampton, Leicester and Ipswich, the Eagles are one of five teams without a league win so far. Oliver Glasner got some great results when he took charge last season but he has got to be careful - at this rate, Roy Hodgson will be back in charge by Christmas."
The Reds have won all their league fixtures so far this term except their 1-0 defeat to Nottingham Forest.
Alan Shearer makes prediction for Liverpool vs Crystal Palace
Alan Shearer concurred with Chris Sutton's prediction as he backed the Merseysiders to secure the win as well against Crystal Palace this weekend.
While acknowledging that Slot's men weren't at their best in their wins over Wolverhampton Wanderers and Bologna, Shearer believes they will overwhelm the Eagles at Selhurst Park.
The Newcastle United legend told Metro:
"Liverpool were not at their best last week vs Wolves, but they took all the points which is a good sign. They also followed that up with another win in the Champions League against Bologna.
"Palace have been a little bit disappointing in terms of what they’ve done so far this season, and I think Liverpool will have too much for them here. Selhurst Park is always a tough ground to go to but with the squad they have, I think Liverpool will have enough to get the points."
Meanwhile, the Reds have won both of their Champions League fixtures so far and have qualified for the Round of 16 in the Carabao Cup this season.