Jürgen Klopp's Liverpool host relegation battlers Sunderland at Anfield this Saturday as they hope to get back to winning ways in the Premier League.
The Reds suffered a 2-0 defeat to Leicester City in midweek, after Jamie Vardy scored a double to effectively end Klopp's side's top-four pursuit despite there being 14 games to go.
Liverpool failed to contain the league's top scorer and were left exposed many times on the counter in what was a difficult night for the back four.
This is the second meeting of the two teams this season. Sam Allardyce's men were on the losing end in what was both club's final game of 2015.
£32 million striker Christian Benteke scored the only goal in a 1-0 win, just a minute into the second half. The Belgian will be hoping he can help the team win again but will probably have to do so from the bench.
Team News
It has been no secret that injuries have played a major part in how Liverpool's season has gone so far. However, a few key players are expected to return this week, and the week to follow.
Attacking trio Divock Origi, Philippe Coutinho and Daniel Sturridge all returned to training this week, but only two of the three may feature.
Origi and Coutinho could make the bench tomorrow afternoon, but this game comes too soon for long-term absentee Sturridge. Having the duo back would be a huge boost for the club, and could make a huge impact on the lack of goals Liverpool have failed to convert.
Sturridge could make his return during their FA Cup fourth round replay against West Ham United next week, if not for their trip to Aston Villa the following Saturday.
For Sunderland, defensive midfielder Yann M'Vila, and winger Jeremain Lens could feature if the duo can pass late fitness tests. Veteran centre-back Younes Kaboul will also be available after overcoming a hamstring injury.
The Opposition
The Black Cats find themselves towards the bottom-of-the-table for another season. They brought in experienced manager Allardyce to try and solve this problem, but they continue to attract relegation.
Currently in 19th, they are six points off the bottom, and four points from safety. A win wouldn't see them get out of the dreaded relegation zone, but it could put them above rivals Newcastle United, if the Magpies fail to win in their match.
Head-to-Head
Sunderland have struggled at Anfield, having not won at the ground in their last 16 attempts. Their last win at Liverpool was way back in 1983.
Since then Liverpool have managed to win eight, and draw eight, of the last 16 meetings between the two teams.
Liverpool's defence has also been impressive against the Black Cats in recent performances. Sunderland have failed to score in the last three meetings between the clubs, home or away.
