Other than against Bolton, Liverpool played their best football of the season against an out-of-sorts Manchester City last weekend. Due to their physical exertions in the Champions League, the Citizens looked short of match fitness and were sluggish against the mighty Reds. But that does not take away a great performance by Liverpool at Anfield. Another draw at Anfield though sooner or later, the Reds will put things right at home no doubt.
It is Liverpool's away form that has been awesome this season and even without Lucas, if Kenny Dalglish gets his lineup right, it will be another three points. Maxi and Bellamy have been excellent every time they have started and Suarez clearly enjoys playing with these two as they create space with their intelligent movement.
Maxi scored a hattrick against Fulham last season and he could well do it again if he starts. A repeat of the 5-2 result of last season may be wishful thinking but all the omens are there to suggest Liverpool are peaking in time for the Christmas schedule.
Defensively, they have tightened up, the Agger-Skrtel partnership have the right balance of composure, aggression and thoughtful ball distribution. The classic defensive pairing of a ball playing defender (Agger) with a physical stopper (Skrtel).
In midfield, Charlie Adam is fulfilling the promise that Liverpool fans want to see. The Scot is looking more mobile, his running with the ball has vastly improved in his last two matches. He looked slimmer as well and that could explain his newfound ability to cover more ground, even helping out defensively as he did against Chelsea and Manchester City.
In attack is where Liverpool is probably strongest. Who would have thought that post-Torres?! The star attraction is and always will be Luis Suarez. The "wee man" was superb the last time he played against Fulham and he is the main threat. Fulham defenders are not known as the quickest in the Premiership and surely they will struggle to contain Liverpool's Duracell-powered Uruguayan. Aided by Bellamy who now seem to have an eye for a pass and Maxi whom we know have an eye for a goal, El Pistolero will be looking to end his worrying six-match goal drought.
Against Chelsea and City, Liverpool looked sharper and fitter and I have a feeling that on Monday evening, Fulham will feel the full force of Dalglish's Red Army. For added motivation, the Liverpool players will want to make light of the disappointing news caused by Lucas' serious injury.
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