Liverpool vs Accrington Stanley Prediction, Lineups and Odds: Two tips for today's lunchtime FA Cup clash

With just an hour to go until kick-off, Liverpool will be looking to bounce back after a challenging week. Despite a stellar season that defied expectations following Jurgen Klopp's departure, a league draw with Manchester United and a cup loss to Tottenham have reminded everyone that they are not invincible.

Today, Arne Slot's side have the perfect opportunity to regain their momentum ahead of their Premier League clash with Nottingham Forest. They face Accrington Stanley, a League Two side battling to find form, in what could be a one-sided encounter.

With Liverpool expected to get through this tie with ease, you can expect Arne Slot to rest some key players. This opens the door for Italian winger and summer signing Federico Chiesa to get some minutes in a Liverpool shirt. Despite limited game time this season, Chiesa’s talent is undeniable, and this fixture offers an excellent opportunity for him to shine as a Liverpool player.

Arne Slot, Liverpool’s manager, has openly admitted that Chiesa faces a mountain to climb to cement a place in the starting XI. However, a player of Chiesa’s calibre can take advantage of chances like this. Last season, the Italian international showcased his ability with 9 goals in the Serie A with Juventus last season. 

This FA Cup tie against lower-league opposition could be the perfect stage for Chiesa to remind everyone of his quality. With Liverpool’s squad depth set to be tested, his ability to take on defenders and create chances may prove decisive. Betting on Chiesa to score offers both value and a realistic outcome for this clash.

Another player who can expect to start this game is Japanese midfielder Wataru Endo. Endo came off the bench and played as a makeshift centre-back against Tottenham over the week. 

While Endo has struggled to secure regular starting minutes under Arne Slot this season, his appearances have often involved him playing a crucial holding role, breaking up opposition attacks. With Liverpool expected to rotate heavily, Endo could anchor the midfield in a less cohesive lineup, increasing the likelihood of him committing tactical fouls to stop potential counters.

Endo has a habit of finding himself in the referees book and picked up 12 yellow cards in all competitions last season. He has also been booked once this season in a Carabao Cup match.

Given his role and style of play, betting on Wataru Endo to be booked could provide excellent value in this FA Cup tie.

Liverpool vs Accrington Stanley Lineups

Arne Slot has opted for a much changed team, yet still a very strong one given the club's strength in depth, with starts for the likes of Nunez, Jota, and Alexander-Arnold.

The starting lineups for Liverpool vs Accrington Stanley are displayed in the graphic below.