Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the EFL Cup match.
Anfield will host the only League Cup match this week between Premier League clubs.
Liverpool
After a slip-up against Nottingham Forest, Liverpool returned to their usual form, securing a comfortable victory. Bournemouth can occasionally be dangerous in attack, as seen in their match against their city neighbours (3:2), but they couldn't do anything against Liverpool (0:3). 19 shots (6 on target) resulted in no goals, even though Alisson Becker was replaced by Caoimhín Kelleher due to a muscle strain the Brazilian goalkeeper felt before the game. His participation in this match remains doubtful, but it's unlikely that Arne Slot will risk his first-choice keeper in a League Cup fixture.
West Ham United
West Ham United have struggled against the established Premier League leaders. Despite creating chances, they managed to breach Aston Villa’s defence only once (1:2) and scored against Manchester City only with the help of an own goal (1:3). In their last game, they were hammered 0:3 by Chelsea, who looked much improved compared to last season. For the game against Chelsea, the West Ham coaching staff switched their formation from the usual 4-2-3-1 to a 3-4-3. The offensive tilt did not work. Despite outshooting their opponents (15-12 in shots, 7-5 on target), the quality was lacking (0.85-2.19 xG). This was better than their defensive metrics against Manchester City and Fulham, but it didn't prevent them from conceding a bunch of goals. Liverpool know how to punish at the first real opportunity.
Liverpool vs West Ham United
Liverpool average two goals per game in the Premier League, but their stronger side remains their defence. They are among the top three clubs in terms of conceding fewer goals than expected in the Premier League, and AC Milan managed only eight shots in their Champions League opener. West Ham United are in for a tough challenge.
