Sunday’s showdown is regarded by some as the key fixture of this domestic campaign. Both teams will have to improve on what has been a somewhat disappointing start to the season to convince a sceptical public.

Chelsea

Chelsea’s “wingless wondersâ€? have been functional so far, but are currently lacking attacking cohesion. The injuries to Arjen Robben and Joe Cole have left Jose Mourinho with limited options on the flanks. His insistence on continuing with the 4-4-2 formation has demonstrated his determination to build his new-look team upon a solid tactical foundation.

Michael Essien has been Chelsea’s standout player so far, and is expected to start against Liverpool on the right flank. The backline has been solid, with new signing Khalid Bouhlarouz living up to his reputation as an uncompromising utility player, and John Terry and Carvalho continuing to build upon their prolific defensive partnership. Wayne Bridge has been unfazed by the Ashley Cole transfer saga, putting in some exceptional performances recently. Cudicini’s poor form at the start of the season was cited as the reason for Chelsea’s loss against Boro, and Cech’s immediate re-insertion after his recovery from shoulder surgery has proven to be a wise move, with the centre backs having regained their composure.

Ashley Cole is expected to start on Sunday as he will provide an over-lapping option for Arjen Robben who has just recovered from a calf injury. Frank Lampard has appeared rejuvinated since the beginning of the season, and is looking to continue his prolific domestic form after a disappointing world cup. Ballack has settled in comfortably at Chelsea, but Shevchenko has yet to find his form since his move from AC Milan. Drogba looks more focused and determined than ever, and will be looking to add to his goal tally this weekend.

My preferred line up:

Cech
Bouhlarouz-Carvalho-Terry-Cole
Essien-Lampard-Ballack-Robben
Drogba-Shevchenko

Judging by Mourinho’s comments regarding penalty takers (“Sheva might be nextâ€?), this formation works on the assumption that Shevchenko will be included in the line up, although it is probable that Chelsea will start with Shevchenko on the bench and play with Makelele in the holding role.

Realistically Chelsea could start with either of these line ups, but due to Shevchenko’s lacklustre performances, I expect Mourinho to begin with the latter.

Expected line-up:

Cech
Bouhlarouz-Carvalho-Terry-Cole
Makelele
Essien-Lampard-Ballack-Robben
Drogba

Liverpool

Liverpool have experienced a relatively poor start to the season, drawing with newly promoted side Sheffield United on the opening day and suffering a 3-0 defeat in the Merseyside derby against bitter rivals Everton. Their win against West Ham will give the fans encouragement, with young defender Daniel Agger scoring a fantastic long range goal, and defending with versatility and enthusiasm.

However, Benitez’ rotation policy has infuriated a number of fans and will be under further scrutiny if Liverpool’s results do not improve rapidly. Reina has had a shaky start to this domestic campaign. Last season’s confident displays by the Spanish keeper have been replaced by complacent performances, and, after a monumental blunder against Everton, Benitez felt it was necessary to publically admit that his keeper could be replaced if he fails to improve.

The backline does not hold the same impenetrable confidence it exuded last season, with seasoned centre backs Carragher and Hyypia appearing cumbersome and jaded, and new left back Aurelio prone to getting caught in possession. Their defensive frailties will inevitably be amended in time for the Chelsea game, as Benitez will consider the upcoming match as a severely significant encounter. It is feasible that Rafa could employ Agger alongside Hyypia to give the side an extra spring in their step. If the young defender does start, I expect him to be charged with covering Shevchenko while Hyypia attempts to deal with the physical threat Drogba presents.

Their midfield has been functioning well despite the defensive issues. Alonso has provided consistent defensive cover and distribution, with Sissoko excelling as the play-breaking midfield marshal. Gerrard has not shown his true capability so far this season, and will want to use this Sunday as a platform for his return to form.

The input of the attacking players has perplexed Benitez as much as the viewing public. Despite their often impressive link-up play with the midfield, Liverpool seem to lack a player with the attitude of an out-and-out striker. Bellamy could and should be the man to remedy this problem, but the playing styles of Kuyt and Pennant, and the continuing status of Crouch as the primary target man has encouraged the team to resort to playing high looping balls into the forwards instead of playing the ball to their feet.

I predict that we will see a reformed and youthful side start against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge to try and break up the short passing style of football Chelsea have adopted. They will aim to keep the ball low, and exploit the width afforded by Gonzales’ and Pennant’s inclusion in the side. Bellamy’s movement as a lone striker with the delivery of Gerrard and the two wingers could cause Chelsea’s defenders serious problems.

My preferred line up:

Reina
Finnan-Agger-Hyypia-Aurelio
Alonso
Sissoko-Gerrard
Pennant Gonzales
Crouch

It is more likely that Benitez will opt for experience, and stick with his tried and tested formation.

Expected line up:

Reina
Finnan-Carragher-Hyypia-Aurelio
Alonso
Gerrard-Sissoko-Gonzalez
Bellamy-Crouch

These are my other predictions for Sunday’s clash.

• In a tense atmousphere, new signings tend to be less shackled by the challenge of fitting into a new system. I predict that a new signing will make the difference in the match on sunday.
• The midfield clash that has been forecast between Gerrard and Lampard in every recent Chelsea vs Liverpool match will finally occur this Sunday, with one stepping up and providing the basis for his team’s success and the other fading into obscurity for the majority of the match.
• The referee and/or the assistants will make a crucial decision that will decide the outcome of the game, and one manager will make an outspoken critique of the other’s tactics.