Brighton loyalists are beginning to get excited after the Seagulls followed a 3-0 victory over champions Arsenal with a 5-0 thumping of arch-rivals Crystal Palace last week, when they scored three times in the opening 10 minutes.
Fabian Hurzeler’s team are doing nothing to contradict those who believe they can at least gain a top-four finish this season, but their credentials are set to be severely tested in their next two games as a trip to leaders Manchester City follows Sunday’s visit to Liverpool.
They should be positive against the Reds, who have failed to win any of their last five home Premier League matches, which will only encourage those hoping for an entertaining clash at Anfield.
The Reds have taken a little while to hit top gear under their new manager Andoni Iraola, who needs a strong home result after a 3-0 loss to the Citizens the last time they were in league action on their own patch.
However, a 4-3 Champions League win over Villarreal on Tuesday will have instilled some confidence and help boost their recent record to five wins from their last six outings.
Iraola started with Florian Wirtz, Alexander Isak and Bradley Barcola among his substitutes, which suggests they will be charged for the visit from the Seagulls even though the trio all eventually took part in the action.
It was the third occasion in the last four games that the Reds have conceded three goals, so there looks a strong chance there will be at least four goals in this one, which has happened on four of the last six occasions Brighton have been on the road.
Liverpool vs Brighton prediction: Over 3.5 goals (-120) available at time of publishing. Playable to -130.
