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Liverpool won't need any warning about the threat that Harry Kane poses after bagging his 21st and 22nd goals of the season against Arsenal. It's difficult to see how the Reds are going to stop him tonight, it's difficult to see how anyone in the world is going to stop him right now. A disappointing Merseyside derby did result in another clean sheet for Liverpool and Simon Mignolet however, that makes it 4 in a row, and leaves them unbeaten in 8 league games. Coupled with home advantage, despite Spurs' good form having lost just twice in 15 games, it is not going to be an easy trip for the London side. Both sides will need their big game players out there today, we're looking at Eriksen, Kane and Lloris along with Sterling, Gerrard and a first start back from injury for Daniel Sturridge. Both teams will be wary of giving away free kicks near the penalty area as both sides have shown their ability to pop the ball in the back of the net from those positions. It will be a massive game for Skrtel, who is a great player and he needs to have a big game, as does Sakho, whose good pace for a defender could prove to be a lifesaver for Liverpool.
Spurs have been showing that they will fight for Champions League football, their recent form has been very impressive and they have earned 15 points from losing positions this year following the 2-1 at home to rivals Arsenal. The way they appear to line up will give Christian Eriksen a lot of chances to distribute, he won't have Lucas there to hound him and he can distribute to his wingers Lamela and potentially a first start back for Chadli, and he also has the Hurricane up top to find against Liverpool's back 3. Eriksen will be crucial if Spurs are to break down this tough Liverpool defence (didn't think I'd be saying that a year ago), and if Mason has the legs for this game his work rate could be a deciding factor.
Of course Liverpool aren't without their threats, Daniel Sturridge is a great player, he and Sterling could cause real problems for Vertonghen and Dier with their pace, although Rose and Walker are very quick and will hope to snuff out any balls over the top. Gerrard disappointed in his final Merseyside derby, and the trip back home to Anfield will only spur him on further to prove his value to the club in a game they can not afford to lose.
Because a loss would be so detrimental to their top 4 chances, Liverpool will really push for this win, but will have to be wary of Tottenham's threat on the counter attack. Tottenham themselves can not afford defeat, but will settle for a tough away draw, not allowing Liverpool into the race for the top four. I can see this one going 2-2, Spurs are going to have to defend a lot but if Eriksen can pick out the right ball to Kane, Lamela or Chadli than they should be able to spring a few great opportunities on Liverpool.
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