Liverpool vs Zenit Preview

February 20, 2013 By Gregory Sica

The Reds will have to overturn a two-goal deficit against the Russians to progress to the last 16 of the Europa League.

Liverpool are in need of an inspired performance against Zenit at Anfield on Thursday in order to remain alive in the Europa League.

The Reds were beaten 2-0 by Zenit in Russia last week, and will be desperate to overturn that deficit in what promises to be an action-packed encounter.

Liverpool, who came into the competition as one of the main challengers for the title, understand that they face a difficult but not impossible challenge against a Zenit outfit who contain great quality in their squad, such as Brazilian attacker Hulk.

But the Reds contain quality of their own, with Luis Suarez being by far their most important player. The Uruguayan striker has been in exceptional form for Liverpool this season, and much is expected of him on Thursday.

Suarez will lead the line in the attack, with Stewart Downing, Jordan Henderson and Raheem Sterling providing him with support a little further back.

New signings Daniel Sturridge and Phillipe Coutinho are cup-tied, so will miss the game, as will Fabio Borini, who dislocated his shoulder in the 5-0 romp of Swansea on Sunday.

Meanwhile, Zenit coach Luciano Spalletti will have the luxury to count with a full-strength squad, and for this reason is expected to field an identical starting eleven as the one that beat Liverpool 2-0 in Saint Petersburg last week.