Liverpool vs West Ham: Philippe Coutinho to exploit frail Hammers in bid to extend unbeaten Anfield run

A look ahead to the Premier League fixture at Anfield

(AFP/Getty Images)

It's a big game for…

Aaron Cresswell: In truth it's a big game for every member of West Ham's defence after they were embarrassed by Bournemouth, but Creswell was as poor as anyone in that defeat, directly at fault for two of the four goals conceded.

The Hammers’ player of the year last season needs to rediscover the form that saw him win that award if he is to help pull the Londoners out of their poor run.

Weird /best stat…

44: The number of games these two sides have contested at Anfield since West Ham last won away at Liverpool. That game came in the old Division One, back in 1963.

Remember when…

Happy memories for Liverpool fans, as their team – inspired by a hat-trick from Fernando Torres at the peak of his powers – took apart West Ham in a 4-0 win.

Player to watch…

Philippe Coutinho: Liverpool have been slow to start going forward this season, with only two goals scored in their opening three matches. A West Ham defence short on confidence presents an excellent chance for the Reds to improve that record, and principle playmaker Coutinho is the best candidate to exploit them, with his clever movement and eye for a pass.

Past three-meetings…

Liverpool 2 (Sterling, Sturridge) West Ham 0, Premier League, January 2015

West Ham 3 (Reid, Sakho, Amalfitano) Liverpool 1 (Sterling), Premier League, September 2014

West Ham 1 (Demel) Liverpool 2 (Gerrard 2), Premier League, April 2014

Form guide…

LIVERPOOL: DLLWWD

WEST HAM: LDLWLL

Vital information…

KICK-OFF TIME: 15.00

TV: Highlights on BBC1

The Independent has launched a new football app! Live scores, in-game stats, breaking news, videos and push notifications are just some of the many features. Use the links below to download and get more from Indy Football...

iPhone
http://ind.pn/iphonefootball

iPad
http://ind.pn/ipadfootball

Android
http://ind.pn/androidfootball