With two defeats in their first three games, Liverpool face an uphill struggle to overcome their main rivals in the race for the Premier League title. Chelsea and Arsenal have both got off to good starts whilst Manchester United stuttered at Burnley. It was a shock defeat for Alex Ferguson's men though with United's track record it is likely to have been an early wake up call.
Liverpool Squad Too Light to Win Title
It's difficult to say the same about Liverpool's opening day defeat at Spurs. Harry Redknapp has assembled a strong squad at White Hart Lane and it was always going to be a tough opening encounter for the Reds. The defeat at home to Aston Villa however was much more disappointing for Benitez and his men. In a game they didn't deserve to lose to concede three goals has shook the foundations at Anfield. It was a result and a performance that suggested Liverpool don't have enough in their locker to secure the league title for the first time in two decades.
One thing we can expect from Liverpool this weekend is a backlash - and Gary Megson's men are likely to be on the end of it. Liverpool and Benitez have a good record against Bolton. They have won their last five encounters including back to back victory's at the Reebok Stadium and have scored 15 goals to Bolton's one in the process. With Liverpool needing a good performance and all three points, The Trotters could well be facing another drubbing.
Bolton have made a poor start to the season, two defeats and still without a goal in the league. They have twice been on the wrong end of a 1-0 score line to Sunderland on the opening day and last week to Hull City, two sides Megson will consider as a similar standing to his side. The problem for Wanderers is their inability to score goals. The front two John Elamander and Kevin Davies only managed 17 between them last season and they look like they might struggle again this campaign. If they are to take the points from Liverpool their best chance will come from a set-piece.
Liverpool Must Guard Against Bolton's Aerial Threat
The five goals Liverpool have conceded this term have all come from dead ball situations, three free-kicks, a corner and a penalty. With a question mark still hanging over the effectiveness of the zonal marking strategy, Bolton's aerial threat may see the Reds rearguard come unstuck again. But it will be how they perform at the other end that will decide this match.
Benitez is likely to start with the side that lost to Villa - which at present is arguably the strongest side he can field - though he may feel this is a good opportunity to utilise his rotation policy. However, with a threadbare squad and Liverpool desperate for a win that might be a gamble too risky for Benitez to take. Given his sides vulnerability in the air though, new signing sotorios Kyrgiakos may be given his first run out.
