“Liverpool Should Win” – Jan Molby Previews Liverpool’s Premier League Clash with Crystal Palace | OneFootball

Liverpool vs Crystal Palace: Jan Molby’s Thoughts on the Upcoming Clash

In a recent Molby on the Spot podcast episode hosted by Trev Downey on Anfield Index, Liverpool legend Jan Molby shared his insightful predictions ahead of the much-anticipated fixture between Liverpool and Crystal Palace. Speaking about Liverpool’s current form under new manager Arne Slot, Molby delved into Liverpool’s challenges and opportunities against Crystal Palace, focusing on the team’s recent performances and key players. As always, Molby’s wisdom offers valuable insights into the upcoming game.

Liverpool’s Strong Start Under Arne Slot

Arne Slot has made an impressive start at Liverpool, a fact Molby acknowledges. “Slot picks up his eighth win in nine,” Molby notes, pointing out that Slot’s run has been one of the best starts for any Liverpool manager. Despite this excellent run, Molby is cautious about overstating Liverpool’s superiority. “There will be tougher games ahead,” he said, referencing Slot’s own remarks that tougher tests are on the horizon. And Crystal Palace could be one of those tests.

Crystal Palace: A Different Challenge

Molby touched upon how Crystal Palace has always posed a unique challenge for Liverpool. He noted that while Liverpool should be confident, it’s crucial not to underestimate the Eagles. Reflecting on past games, Molby remarked, “When we play teams like Crystal Palace, you should win. But you don’t always.” Palace’s ability to break down top teams with disciplined defence and fast counterattacks is something Molby hinted at, suggesting that while Liverpool might be expected to win, complacency could be dangerous.

Jan Molby’s Assessment of Liverpool’s Recent Performances

Molby also discussed Liverpool’s recent performances, highlighting areas of both strength and concern. He pointed out that Liverpool’s 2-1 victory over Wolves and the 2-0 win against Bologna showed signs of a team still finding its stride. “Both performances were a little bit sloppy,” Molby said, underlining his concerns about some moments of carelessness in defence. He added, “We’ve seen Liverpool over the years be in complete control… but that wasn’t the case against Wolves.”

Photo: IMAGO

Molby seemingly expects a similar sort of performance, predicting a 2-0 win for the Reds away at Crystal Palace on Saturday.

In terms of individual players, Molby touched on Mo Salah’s contribution in the last two matches. Despite Salah having a rare off game by his high standards, Molby praised the Egyptian’s impact: “He had two games we don’t see too often from him, with a lot of slack passing.” However, Salah’s ability to produce moments of brilliance, such as his goal and assist against Bologna, remains vital.

Key Players to Watch

Molby also highlighted several key players who could make a difference in the game against Crystal Palace. One of the standout performers he mentioned was Ryan Gravenberch, whose dynamic presence in midfield has caught the eye of many fans. “He reminds me a little bit of Emre Can,” Molby said, praising Gravenberch’s ability to carry the ball and turn defence into attack. However, Molby cautioned against expecting too much from Gravenberch in a defensive role: “He can’t end up as a number six at a top club.”

The midfield, according to Molby, will be crucial against Crystal Palace. He pointed out that the combination of Alexis Mac Allister and Gravenberch in midfield is promising but still developing. “The balance at the moment is working well,” Molby said, noting that Mac Allister’s ability to stick close to Gravenberch provides a more solid base in midfield.

What to Expect From the Crystal Palace Fixture

Looking ahead to the match, Molby emphasised the importance of continuing Liverpool’s momentum. With the international break over, Molby believes that Liverpool need to hit their stride in the coming run of fixtures. He was hopeful that players like Gravenberch and Mac Allister would step up in the upcoming games. “Let’s hope that after the international break, we got that monster run of fixtures, and he steps up again,” Molby remarked.

In conclusion, while Liverpool are the favourites going into the match against Crystal Palace, Molby’s analysis suggests that they cannot afford to take the game lightly. With key players finding form and a manager who is still solidifying his ideas, the Reds will need to be at their best to ensure another win in their impressive start under Arne Slot.