It’s unusual to be typing a preview in a buoyant mood but that’s what two consecutive victories do for you. They were perfectly timed as the next 4 fixtures see away trips to Boro and Sunderland sandwiched by tough home games against Chelsea and, this Saturday lunchtime, Liverpool. In keeping a positive mood going I’m noting that we haven’t always been walloped by the Big 4 at the Reebok – indeed, we beat Liverpool here in September 2006 and August 2004, which was Rafa’s first defeat as Liverpool manager. Confidence should be high amongst the players and hopefully the Reebok faithful will lay off Megson during the match (for all the criticism I’ve aimed at him via this blog this season, I’ve never booed him or any players at a game and I never will). There’s a time and a place for spleen venting and it isn’t during a vital match when the players need encouragement and support.
It will be interesting to see what starting line-up Megson puts out. He should keep faith with Elmander and Gardner, though Kevin Nolan is available again following suspension, whilst I’d like to see a little more of Smolarek. However, the game concerns me due to the fact that Torres is likely to return. I’ve always rated this guy and the Premier League is really bringing out the best in him – he is a genuine world class talent; one of the top 2 or 3 strikers in world football today. Blend that with a newly-confident Robbie Keane (goals breed confidence), an impressive looking Albert Riera and Steven Gerrard covering every inch of grass whilst stamping on Nolan’s chest and you’ve got a daunting task ahead. I’ll be happy with Megson packing the midfield and trying to stall Liverpool’s free-flowing football (for once I’ll be very content with a dull-as-shite 0-0 here) though I expect Liverpool will just have too much class in the end. Heart says 0-0 (or even 1-0 to us…) though head says Liverpool will win by the odd goal in 3…