Overview
Liverpool unexpectedly slowed down when they were held to a 2-2 draw by Man United in the Premier League. In their most recent match, they were also defeated 1-0 by Tottenham in the first leg of the Carabao Cup semi-final. In both matches, coach Arne Slot's team was rated higher but struggled.
Slot, therefore, needs to restore the team's confidence with a win in the FA Cup. They have a tough trip to Nottingham Forest in the Premier League next week. With only Accrington in the third round of the FA Cup, Liverpool will clearly aim for a big win.
Accrington are currently playing in the English Fourth Division. They are also not in good form, only ranked 19th and not too far from the relegation group. Overall, Accrington's trip to Anfield will be more about the experience than the actual result.
As for Liverpool, they will likely leave some key players out to preserve their fitness for the upcoming important match against Nottingham. Even with the use of a reserve squad, the Kop's strength is still superior to their opponents.
The two teams have only faced each other once before, and that was in the FA Cup third round in 1956. That match was also played at Anfield, with Liverpool winning 2-0.
Human resources situation
Federico Chiesa has only made a handful of appearances for Liverpool since joining last summer due to injury problems. The Italian striker could be handed a start in this game.
Meanwhile, Joe Gomez has yet to return, while Dominik Szoboszlai is doubtful of playing.
On the other side of the front line, Accrington will travel to Anfield with their strongest squad and captain Shaun Whalley - a midfielder who has scored 3 goals in the last 2 matches.
Expected lineup:
Liverpool: Kellaher, Tsimikas, Endo, Quansah, Bradley, Morton, Nyoni, Jones, Elliott, Chiesa, Jota.
Acrrington Stanley: Crellin, Love, Awe, Rawson, Woods, Whalley, Khumbeni, Martin, Woods, Hunter, Walton.
The match between Liverpool and Accrington takes place at 7:15 p.m. on January 11 (Vietnam time).
