This is a game that could go either way based on Liverpool’s sporadic form so far this season.
Matt Beard’s side have had a roaring start to the WSL season following promotion, which comes with its fair share of challenges and pressures from fans and management alike. However, they’ve taken it in their stride, beating last season’s champions Chelsea in their opening fixture.
Their 2-0 loss to Arsenal last week wasn’t surprising and was never a game that they walked in to with a guaranteed win as it seems everything England striker Beth Mead touches turns to gold.
Liverpool’s midweek visit to Leicester also saw them claim three points, score four more goals and a clean sheet while also finishing top of their Conti Cup group and guaranteeing a place in the next round.
It’s unlikely Beard will make many changes since their last WSL game with Yana Daniels, Mel Lawley and Katie Stengel up front.
A big loss to the Reds comes in the form of Leanne Kiernan, who recently underwent surgery for an ankle injury she suffered earlier in the season.
Speaking after the Arsenal defeat, Beard said: “It’s a bitter blow, Leanne’s injury and for her to be out for so long. But that’s part of the game, we just have to adapt and adjust.”
The Reds boss also shared an exciting update on Shanice Van De Sanden which was music to the fans ears: “She’s chomping at the bit to get back now. She got through training unscathed on Friday and hopefully she’ll be back in team training next week.”
Beard will be looking to change the statistics in the trip to Manchester on Sunday, as City remain unbeaten at home to Liverpool in the WSL, only dropping points during a 1-1 draw in June 2016.
Beard says their win on Thursday will give them confidence going into this game.
“We want to get the win so we can take confidence into Sunday’s game away at Manchester City. They had a tough start but they’ve turned that around now and that will be another tough test for us.”
The game kicks off at 2pm at the Manchester City Academy Stadium.
