Preview: Cardiff City v LIVERPOOL

A late winner from Seamus Coleman saw Cardiff denied what would have been an invaluable point at Goodison Park last weekend. A sterling effort from Ole Gunnar Solkjaer’s side was not rewarded however, and they returned to south Wales with nothing to show for the efforts after the game ended 2-1 to the Toffees.

Steven Caulker remains Cardiff’s defensive leader this term, repeatedly putting his body on the line and organising those around him. He leads the Cardiff squad for total defensive contributions this season according to the EA SPORTS Player Performance Index with 383.

Last weekend’s result was particularly harsh on ‘keeper David Marshall, the Cardiff ‘stopper putting in yet another excellent performance which unfortunately ended in a losing effort. It’s no surprise to see that he tops the league for saves with 120 this season, and remains the only ‘keeper to have moved into triple figures this campaign.

Jordon Mutch has emerged as a valuable attacking force for Cardiff this season, seemingly relishing the challenge of competing against the best defenders the Premier League has to offer. He will have to be mindful of own defensive technique this weekend though, given that he leads the Cardiff squad for fouls conceded this term with 37. Mutch is 13/2 with 888sport.com to score at any time this weekend.

Defensive midfielder Guy Medel will be crucial to Cardiff’s chances of success this weekend as not allowing Liverpool to get into their attacking rhythm could set the tone for the rest of the game. His stats suggest he is up to the task though, with Medel remaining the only Cardiff player to have moved into triple figures for tackles attempted this season (104), winning a solid 63.5% of them.

A stunning performance saw Liverpool secure a remarkable 0-3 victory over archrivals Manchester Utd last time out. Captain Steven Gerrard continued his fine season with two penalties, whilst the always dangerous Luis Suarez rounded off a dominant win in the final minutes.

Steven Gerrard has flourished in the new deep-lying role he has been tasked with this season, the England captain’s superb passing range being put to excellent effect. He remains a formidable force in defence as well, winning all four of his attempted challenges last week and completing three interceptions according to the EA SPORTS Player Performance Index.

The irrepressible Luis Suarez is showing no signs of slowing down as Liverpool maintain their challenge for the Premier League title this season, the Uruguayan showing remarkable consistency throughout this campaign. He is now the only player in the league to have moved into triple figures for attempted shots on goal with 111, and has taken on average just 19.4 minutes this season to have a attempt on the opposition goal, another league best. Suarez is an industry best 13/18 with 888sport.com to score at any time this weekend.

Jordan Henderson remains one of the unsung heroes of this Liverpool side, putting in the necessary shifts that allow the players in front of him to shine. He’s won an excellent 71.7% of his 99 attempted challenges this season, as well as completing more passes in the opponent’s half than any other Liverpool player this term with 797.

Raheem Sterling has continued his development this season into one of the most consistently dangerous wingers in the league. The youngster has now added end product to his electrifying pace, so far racking up five assists to place him fifth in the Liverpool squad.