The Liverpool defence is at full strength, marshalled by Jamie Carragher and the prodigious Daniel Agger. In contrast, Chelsea's backline has stuttered without John Terry, who has a knee injury but is expected to play.
LIVERPOOL 8/10 CHELSEA 6/10
MIDFIELD
With Steven Gerrard in the middle and Javier Mascherano mopping up behind him, the Reds look formidable. Chelsea have a slight edge on the wings, with Florent Malouda and Shaun Wright-Phillips looking sharp. But the likely absence of Michael Essien and Claude Makelele could be a blow to their engine room.
LIVERPOOL 9/10 CHELSEA 8/10
ATTACK
The heat is on Fernando Torres and his budding partnership with Dirk Kuyt. Both Anfield men have yet to fire on all cylinders. On the other hand, Chelsea can count on their top scorer Didier Drogba, who looks as if he was never injured in the summer.
LIVERPOOL 7/10 CHELSEA 8/10
OVERALL
Backed by the Kop, Liverpool can intimidate even a resolute Chelsea, whose injury woes may sink their chances of coming away with points. Expect a cagey game, but look out for the Reds' excellent midfielders, who are brimming with confidence and ready to deliver.
LIVERPOOL 24/30 CHELSEA 22/30