Liverpool come into this match on the end of a disappointing midweek exit in the champions league away to Basle, and this will be a huge blow to their confidence. Sunderland, under new boss Howard Wilkinson have stopped the rot and are slowly turning the corner, having beaten high flying Tottenham 2-0 last week.

Liverpool are still formidable at home, having won 5 out of 7 and have won their last four home games in the league. Michael Owen has already scored 8 so far, and he is in good form, along with midfielder Danny Murphy who has chipped in with 4 goals. Sunderland have taken 6 points out of a possible 21. They have only won once, but have drawn their last two away games. This game has come at a bad time for Liverpool, their confidence will be dented, even more so after boss Gerrard Houillier branded midfielder Steven Gerrard's performance as 'terrible'. Sunderland, on the other hand are on the up, with the strike partnership of Tore Andre Flo and Kevin Phillips finally starting to work. Kevin Phillips has stated publicly that his recent form is down their new boss Howard Wilkinson. Both scored against Spurs last week.

Those expecting an easy home win for Liverpool will be disappointed. I think Liverpool will win but Sunderland may cause some problems and put pressure on the reds if they do not score within the first half hour. Medium stake on Liverpool.