Liverpool backed for ‘comfortable’ Nottingham Forest win by former Premier League star | OneFootball

Paul Merson Predicts Liverpool’s Clash with Nottingham Forest

Liverpool head into Sunday’s meeting with Nottingham Forest carrying momentum, expectation and a growing sense of stability under Arne Slot. The Premier League champions have rediscovered rhythm at a crucial stage of the campaign, yet a trip to the City Ground remains far from straightforward. With Paul Merson weighing in on what he calls a defining fixture, the spotlight firmly rests on how Liverpool handle a tricky away test against a side fighting for survival.

Liverpool form under Arne Slot

Recent results suggest Liverpool are building towards another strong finish. Victories over Sunderland and Brighton have sharpened belief around the squad, with key figures stepping up at the right moment. Ibrahima Konate has looked more assured defensively, while Mohamed Salah’s renewed sharpness in front of goal has lifted the overall attacking threat.

Consistency in selection has also helped. Earlier in the season, rotation and injuries left supporters guessing about the starting XI, yet the core of the side now feels settled. That cohesion has translated into more controlled performances and improved goal returns, particularly after a run of frustrating draws at the beginning of 2026.

Still, Nottingham Forest away carries its own narrative. Liverpool suffered a heavy 3-0 defeat at Anfield earlier in the campaign, a result that continues to linger in the background. Slot’s team may be in better form now, but memories of that afternoon underline how unpredictable this fixture can be.

Photo: IMAGO

Paul Merson prediction explained

Paul Merson has offered a confident outlook for Liverpool, describing the clash in emphatic terms. In his weekly predictions column, he wrote: ‘This is a humungous game at both ends of the table.’

He added: ‘Liverpool destroyed Sunderland last time out. I haven’t seen any other team do that to Sunderland at the Stadium of Light this season. Ibrahima Konate and Mohamed Salah starting to look like their old selves has helped Liverpool.

‘The Liverpool line-up also looks quite settled now. A few weeks ago, we had no idea who would be in the starting XI, but now at least nine players are nailed on and that has made a difference to them. I expect a comfortable win.’

Merson’s forecast points towards a 2-0 victory for Liverpool, a scoreline that reflects his belief that the visitors’ quality should ultimately shine through.

Nottingham Forest challenge at City Ground

Despite Liverpool’s strong form, Nottingham Forest present a genuine threat. The appointment of Vitor Pereira introduces uncertainty, as managerial changes often bring renewed energy and tactical tweaks. Forest have already proven difficult opponents for Slot, collecting wins at Anfield and securing a draw in his previous visit to the City Ground.

For Liverpool supporters, this fixture has the feel of a potential banana skin. Forest’s urgency in the relegation battle, combined with the atmosphere on Trentside, creates a setting where small mistakes can carry big consequences. Liverpool will need composure, defensive focus and clinical finishing to avoid complications.

Champions League implications for Liverpool

Beyond immediate bragging rights, the result could shape Liverpool’s push towards another top four finish. With rivals playing later in the week, Slot’s side have an opportunity to apply pressure and strengthen their position in the race for Champions League qualification.

Maintaining attacking efficiency while controlling transitions will be key. Liverpool’s summer signings are beginning to influence matches more consistently, and if that upward trend continues, Merson’s confidence in a positive outcome may prove justified. Yet the Premier League rarely follows simple scripts, and Nottingham Forest will be determined to disrupt Liverpool’s momentum in front of their own supporters.