When looking at Liverpool's results this season it's pretty obvious to see why they are in the position they are in. They have dropped too many points against the bottom half clubs in the league compared to the sides above them. The likes of Norwich, Swansea and Sunderland have come to Anfield and got away with something. Which brings us to today's game against 11th place QPR on their own ground at Anfield. On paper, this should be a match that Liverpool take the maximum points against a side that just recently got promoted. But then history tell us Liverpool have only won one of their last seven matches against newly-promoted Premier League sides and it's these dropped points that are a major reason why they haven't been challenging for so long. QPR have been a bit of a yo-yo club this season. They have been trashed by the likes of Bolton and Fulham shipping ten goals without return in those fixtures but then have picked up surprise results elsewhere and have amassed a six point distance away from the relegation zone. They were even very unlucky to lose against Manchester City. This doesn't feel like a newly promoted side and manager Neil Warnock has them playing like they have been here all along. Should be an interesting game today and the safe bet would be to bet on a draw!
Team News
Liverpool youngster Jay Spearing begins his three-match ban after his sending off at Fulham on Monday night. Steven Gerrard and Lucas Leiva are out but it could mean Jordan Henderson comes into a centre midfield role. It'll either be him or the recently recalled Jonjo Shelvey. QPR will be missing keepers Paddy Kenny and Brian Murphy, so third choice Radek Cerny is likely to start in goal. Adel Taarabat, who just hasn't been the same player in this division, has a late fitness test. Matt Connolly (ankle), Kieron Dyer (foot) and DJ Campbell (foot) could play after returning to training this week.