Liverpool and Wolverhampton Wanderers go head-to-head in the FA Cup this evening for the third time in six years, with both teams expected to make a big comeback.
Jurgen Klopp’s poor record in the competition was rectified last season when Liverpool lifted the trophy after beating Chelsea on penalties in the final. Liverpool could do with a confidence-boosting win after their defensive frailties were starkly exposed at Brentford on Monday, when they also lost Virgil van Dijk to a hamstring injury. Liverpool are now seven points clear of Manchester United and the Champions League places.
Liverpool fans at Anfield tonight will be excited to see new signing Cody Gakpo in action for the first time, with Klopp full of praise for the Dutch striker ahead of the game.
“He’s a good footballer, good in tight spaces, likes to shoot from distance, good finisher and dribbler,” Klopp said.
“Anyone who wants to know about him could know because there are so many videos about him. It’s nice to see him in real life, in front of you.
“He looks very promising and fit. The sessions are intense for him because they are different. I am very positive about him. Coming from a new league is always difficult, but we hope for a positive impact.”
Julen Lopetegui made a positive impression for Wolves, who took four points from trips to Everton and Aston Villa and pushed Manchester United hard in a narrow 1-0 defeat. Wolves remain 19th, albeit just one point from safety, and picking up Premier League points is a bigger priority than a cup run. Lopetegui is also unhappy that Liverpool have enjoyed two extra days to prepare.
“They have had five days, I prefer not to repeat it. We have to be ready. Despite the situation we have to prepare for the Cup in the best possible way,” he said.
Full team news coming soon.