PREMIER LEAGUE expert Daniel McCulloch (@DMcCulloch1984) shares his thoughts on Saturday evening's blockbuster encounter between Chelsea and Liverpool at Stamford Bridge.
Chelsea v Liverpool | Saturday 29th September 2018, 17:30 | BT Sport
As a general rule in games of this magnitude I look to oppose goals, but I cannot find a logical reason to do that this weekend.
Jurgen Klopp’s first game as Liverpool manager was a 0-0 draw at Tottenham. Since then, his side have travelled to other members of the Big Six on 13 occasions, with the net bulging on 48 occasions. Both teams have scored in 11 of those encounters, so I understand why Both Teams To Score is as short as 1/2 in some places.
Liverpool being favourites may be a surprise to many, but I felt this was the case when they faced Tottenham yet they completely outclassed their London opponents and I cannot be certain that will not be the case this weekend.
Chelsea have started with five wins and a draw but it’s fair to say that they haven’t had the toughest of schedules. Their most difficult games was against a transitional Arsenal side, a match in which they eventually prevailed, winning by three goals to two.
The Gunners created greater chances, however, and Liverpool are a cut above their local rivals. That said, Arsenal do not possess a player with the talent of Eden Hazard and given that I cannot present a case for either side, I want the draw on my side.
Bet365 are offering 13/5 on said result and I think that is a more than fair shout. It’s been a winner in five of Klopp’s 14 matches away to top six rivals and in a closely fought game I think it’s worth keeping on side.
Elsewhere, I like the look of Eden Hazard at 15/8 with Betfred in the Anytime Goalscorer market.
Long-term stats may not suggest this is value but this appears to be a breakout season for the Belgian. He has scored five goals in six Premier League games this term, scored a superb goal for his side against Liverpool on Wednesday night and has generally looked sensational over the last six months.
He is his side's penalty taker as well so I believe this price is more than fair.
Best Bets
Chelsea v Liverpool – Draw (13/5 Bet365)
Chelsea v Liverpool – Eden Hazard to score at anytime (15/8 Betfred)
