Liverpool vs Nottingham Forest: Reds Aim for Redemption at Anfield

Liverpool vs Nottingham Forest: A Crucial Clash at Anfield

After a humbling 3-0 defeat at Manchester City, Liverpool return to Anfield on Saturday (November 22, 3:00 PM GMT) seeking redemption against Nottingham Forest. The Reds, now firmly on the periphery of the Premier League title race, face a Tricky Trees side looking to build momentum after securing their first league win under Sean Dyche. This fixture carries significant weight – a victory would move Liverpool within five points of table-toppers Arsenal ahead of Sunday's north London derby.

Liverpool's Injury Crisis Forces Reshuffle

Manager Arne Slot faces mounting challenges on the injury front. While goalkeeper Alisson's long-awaited return from a hamstring strain provides a major boost – he's expected to start – the absence of key duo Florian Wirtz and Conor Bradley deals a severe blow. Both picked up muscle injuries on international duty, with Bradley sidelined for at least the next three weeks.

With Jeremie Frimpong (hamstring) already out, Slot is forced into a defensive reshuffle. Dominik Szoboszlai is likely to shift from midfield to right-back, while Joe Gomez could also feature in unfamiliar territory. The lack of natural cover is stark, as Slot revealed only five natural defenders are available for seven games in 22 days.

'Conor is not able to play, Florian is not able to play — it's far from ideal,' Slot confirmed. 'Both are muscle issues. I don't expect Conor to be part of the upcoming seven games... Florian should be able to maybe play... that shouldn't have to be as long.'

Nottingham Forest Hope to Capitalize

Forest enters the match buoyed by a 3-1 victory over Leeds United, their first league win under Dyche. While they remain in the relegation zone, recent draws against Manchester United and Sturm Graz, plus a win over Porto, suggest a revival is underway. However, their injury list is equally concerning.

Top scorer Chris Wood (knee), former Liverpool striker Taiwo Awoniyi, and summer recruits Dilane Bakwa, Douglas Luiz, and Oleksandr Zinchenko are all sidelined. Callum Hudson-Odoi, who scored the winner at Anfield last season, could return from a dead leg. Igor Jesus will lead the attack.

Head-to-Head and Form Analysis

Historically, Liverpool holds the edge (3 wins, 1 draw, 1 Forest win in the last five meetings). However, Forest's resilience at Anfield in January 2025 (1-1 draw and a win) proves they can trouble the Reds.

Liverpool's home form has been strong this season, with only the Manchester United defeat tarnishing their record. Forest's ability to counter-attack, combined with Liverpool's defensive vulnerabilities, sets up an intriguing tactical battle.

Predicted Lineups

Liverpool (4-2-3-1): Alisson; Gomez, Konaté, Van Dijk, Robertson; Gravenberch, Mac Allister; Salah, Szoboszlai, Gakpo; Isak.

Nottingham Forest (4-2-3-1): Sels; Savona, Milenković, Murillo, Williams; Sangaré, Anderson; Ndoye, Gibbs-White, Hudson-Odoi; Jesus.

Match Prediction

Despite their injury woes, Liverpool's attacking quality at Anfield should prevail. Forest's defensive fragility and Liverpool's desperation for points suggest a high-scoring affair. Prediction: Liverpool 2-1 Nottingham Forest.

What's Next?

For Liverpool, this is a must-win to reignite their title hopes. For Forest, it's a chance to climb out of the relegation zone and build momentum under Dyche. Expect a fiery contest at Anfield.