THE Premier League returns this Tuesday as Huddersfield welcome Liverpool to the John Smith's Stadium. Ben Levene (@BenLevene96) shares his best bets.
Huddersfield v Liverpool | Tuesday 30th January 2018, 20:00 | BT Sport
Before residing in the UK, David Wagner and Jurgen Klopp spent time working together back in Germany. Wagner was a coach at Mainz when Klopp was in charge, and then took over as manager of Dortmund’s second side while Klopp was in control of the first-team.
Beyond their close relationship off the pitch, their Huddersfield and Liverpool sides mirror each other in aspects of their play. Both teams are set up to press high-up the pitch in a brave manor, and require high-energy across the park.
Goals likely
Liverpool come into this game having lost two games in the last week, against Swansea and West Brom sides who were happy to sit deep and concede possession. The Reds struggled to break down these deep-lying defences, this is a theme that’s been present throughout Klopp’s time in charge.
However, it is difficult to see Huddersfield departing from their normal aggressive and tenacious game, and that could leave them vulnerable to the running of Sadio Mane, Roberto Firmino and Mo Salah in behind.
Huddersfield have scored in nine of 12 home matches, including meetings at the John Smith's against Man Utd, Man City and Chelsea. All six of their games v top-six sides have seen Over 2.5 Goals.
They've conceded at least five shots on-target in four of their last six home games, with the exceptions coming against defensively-oriented Burnley and Brighton sides. So we can see Huddersfield have struggle to shut teams out. Liverpool have registered at least five shots on-target in nine consecutive league games, so that trend doesn't look like halting here.
Along similar lines, 10 of Liverpool’s 12 Premier League away games have seen at least three goals. They’ve scored more goals away from home this season than they have at Anfield, and are yet to keep a clean sheet in 2018.
Cards worth considering
It’s also worth noting that Jonathan Hogg has attempted more tackles than any other Huddersfield player this season. He also ranks high for interceptions and fouls.
Hogg tends to be key to the Terriers game without the ball. He’s integral to their press and the nature of his game means there will be opportunity for the odd cynical foul given Liverpool’s counter-attacking prowess.
He’s 3/1 to be booked and can could give us a decent run for our money. You may even find a better price closer to kick-off.
Best Bets
Huddersfield v Liverpool – Over 2.5 Goals (4/5 Marathon)
