Brighton travel up to Anfield ahead of their final game of the season as the Seagulls take on Liverpool having already achieved Premier League safety in their first campaign, courtesy of a monumental victory over Manchester United last weekend.
With Brighton’s last three games of the season being against United, Manchester City and Liverpool, it was clear Chris Hughton’s men had to get the job done beforehand. However, after a shock win over United at the Amex, Brighton travel up north knowing that no matter the result, they will be playing in the top-flight of English football next season.
As for Liverpool, they prepare for the final day of the 2017-18 season knowing that a draw would guarantee Champions League qualification ahead of Chelsea.
Jurgen Klopp’s reds sit two points ahead of Chelsea coming into the last game of the campaign and will qualify for Europe’s elite club competition again if they can avoid defeat.
Team news:
Brighton’s only injury issue is with Steve Sidwell, who has missed most of the season after picking up an ankle injury that has left the veteran midfielder out since January.
Liverpool will be without Joe Gomez and Oxlade-Chamberlain who both picked up injuries ruling them out of the summer World Cup. While Adam Lallana, Joel Matip and Emre Can are all doubtful for both this game and the Champions League Final against Real Madrid on May 26.
Head to Head:
The clubs’ only previous Premier League meeting came in the reverse fixture earlier in the season. Liverpool game out as heavy winners, winning 5-1 with Roberto Firmino getting a brace at the Amex.
Liverpool have won 14 out of the 26 games played against the Seagulls, with Brighton only managing to win 4.
Start time:
Liverpool host Brighton at Anfield with kick-off scheduled for 3pm on Sunday, May 13.
Predicted line-ups:
Liverpool starting XI: Karius; Alexander-Arnold, Van Dijk, Lovren, Robertson; Milner, Henderson, Wijnaldum; Salah, Firmino, Mane
Brighton starting XI: Ryan, Saltor, Duffy, Dunk, Bong, Knockaert, Propper, Stephens, Izquierdo, Gross, Murray
