The international break has concluded, and Premier League action is back as Liverpool head to Molineux Stadium to face Wolves in Saturday’s early kick-off fixture.
Liverpool remain unbeaten after four games this season, securing impressive victories over Bournemouth and Newcastle, even while playing with 10 men.
Their latest triumph was a convincing 3-0 win over Aston Villa at Anfield, albeit without their captain, Virgil van Dijk. Van Dijk received a suspension for an additional match and a £100,000 fine for improper conduct following his red card against Newcastle.
On the other hand, Wolves have faced early-season struggles, suffering three defeats in four games, which places them 15th in the league table.
To gain valuable insights into this matchday five encounter, we had the opportunity to interview Ben, the host of The Anfield Talk, who graciously shared his expert perspective with LFC Transfer Room.
The international break is over and Premier League action returns this weekend. What have you made of Liverpool’s start to the new season?
Ben: I think it’s been a really solid start. When the fixtures were announced we would’ve definitely taken 10 points from the first 12 available. Especially when two of the games are Chelsea & Newcastle away which are two of the toughest grounds to go to. I think the biggest positive is that we’ve won 3 out of 4, and there’s still room for improvement. We are nowhere near the finished product yet which is incredibly exciting. I think the Newcastle win with 10 men away from home made us all believe in this team again. I think that game could be looked back on as a significant win at the end of the season.
Which players have impressed so far?
Ben: The obvious one is Dominik Szoboszlai. He’s been incredible. The way he’s settled into a new country, new surroundings & a new team is very impressive. He looks like the midfielder we’ve been crying out for. He’s everything that Jurgen Klopp looks for in a midfielder. His engine is insane, but he’s got the technical ability to go with it. He’s taken the number 8, and he looks like it was a match made in heaven. I’m so excited to see what he can develop into here.
Liverpool made four signings this summer following the arrival of Alexis Mac Allister, Dominik Szoboszlai, Wataru Endo, and Ryan Gravenberch. How would you rate their performances so far aside from Gravenberch who is yet to feature for the Reds?
Ben: I think all of the new signings (who have played) have done well to be fair. Szoboszlai as I mentioned has already become a fan favourite & looks like one of the best midfielders in the league. Alexis Mac Allister is a player that I’ve been fond of for a while now & really liked him at Brighton, and of course for Argentina in the World Cup. His versatility to be able to play in the 6, 8 and even 10 will be key for us this season. Although I do feel like he’s perfectly suited to play a little deeper almost like Thiago. Endo hasn’t had a fair chance yet to impress as he’s been used when we’ve had 10 men, but he was brilliant against Germany the other night. I wasn’t particularly aware of him before we signed him, but he’s the captain of his national side. The manager clearly sees something in him, so I will of course give him a chance. And finally Ryan Gravenberch of course is yet to feature, but again I’m excited to see him play. Of course, he didn’t get on very well at Bayern for various reasons, but the kid is clearly talented. At just 21 years old, I think his ceiling is still incredibly high. It’s unclear what the plan is for him yet in terms of where we want him to play, but I’d expect it to be either the 6 or as an 8.
Wolves a difficult game for Liverpool?
Ben: I think it will be more difficult than people think. Obviously, we are without Virgil & Trent for certain & a few other players like Darwin Nunez didn’t train today. It remains to be seen if Konate will be ready, but he trained today which is a massive boost. Playing at 12:30 on the back of an international break can often be difficult too especially away from home. But I’d still predict Liverpool to win of course.
Prediction?
Ben: I’m going to go with a 2-1 win. I think Neto will score for Wolves, and Diogo & Salah will score for us!
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