Burnley vs Liverpool: Premier League Matchday 4 Preview
Burnley host reigning champions Liverpool at Turf Moor on Sunday, 14 September 2025, in what promises to be a test of character for the newly promoted Clarets and a chance for Liverpool to extend their perfect start.
Recent Form & Stakes
Liverpool have begun the 2025-26 season in impressive fashion. They are unbeaten in their opening three Premier League fixtures, having beaten Bournemouth, Newcastle United, and most recently Arsenal. A win against Burnley would see them maintain their 100% record.
Burnley, by contrast, have had a mixed start. They have recorded just one win in their first three games and are looking to build momentum at home. Their recent loss to Manchester United was close, with Burnley conceding late.
For Burnley, it’s about proving they deserve a place among the top flight again. For Liverpool, it’s about not slipping up and showing squad depth, especially with new signings and returning players.
Team News & Injuries
Liverpool
Image- Liverpool FC (Official Website)
Curtis Jones is confirmed unavailable. He picked up an injury in the win over Arsenal and will miss the trip to Turf Moor.
Jeremie Frimpong looks set to return after a hamstring issue. He missed matches vs Newcastle and Arsenal but has resumed training.
Alexander Isak, Liverpool’s record signing, is under consideration for a debut. However, his fitness is still being managed carefully since he missed much of preseason and the opening Premier League games. He most recently played for Sweden (18 minutes) and is working his way back. Whether he starts or is used off the bench remains in question.
Burnley
Image – Burnley (Official Website)
Burnley have some selection questions but fewer high-profile absentees.
Long-term absentees include Zeki Amdouni.
Jordan Beyer and Connor Roberts could be available.
Predicted Lineups & Tactical Thoughts
Here is how both sides might line up, based on recent reporting.
Team Likely Formation Key Players / Notes
| Burnley (4-2-3-1) | Liverpool (4-2-3-1) |
|---|---|
| GK: M. Dubravka | GK: Alisson |
| RB: K. Walker | RB: J. Frimpong |
| CB: H. Ekdal | CB: I. Konaté |
| CB: M. Esteve | CB: V. van Dijk |
| LB: Q. Hartman | LB: M. Kerkez |
| CDM: J. Cullen | CM: R. Gravenberch |
| CDM: B. Ugochukwu | CM: A. Mac Allister |
| RM: A. B. Larsen | RM: D. Szoboszlai |
| CAM: H. Mejbri | CAM: F. Wirtz |
| LM: J. Anthony | LM: Mohamed Salah |
| ST: L. Foster | ST: H. Ekitike / Isak |
Tactically, Liverpool are expected to dominate possession and push high up the pitch, looking to exploit width and pace. Burnley, especially at home, will likely adopt a more cautious, compact defensive shape. Counterattacks and set-pieces may be their best routes to threaten the Reds.
Key Players to Watch
Mohamed Salah (Liverpool) – Always a threat, especially in wide or attacking midfield positions; looks to extend his form.
Alexander Isak (Liverpool) – If he makes his debut, even off the bench, all eyes will be on him. Big expectations given the transfer fee and hype.
Dominik Szoboszlai – Has already shown he can impact big games. Might play a slightly different role depending on how Frimpong’s return gets slotted in.
Jaidon Anthony (Burnley) – One of the Clarets’ bright spots so far; can create danger, particularly on transitions.
Odds & Betting Insights
Bookmakers heavily favour Liverpool to win this clash, reflecting the gulf in quality and form between the two sides.
Liverpool Win: 1.30 – 1.40
Draw: 4.50 – 5.00
Burnley Win: 7.50 – 8.00
Other Popular Markets:
Over 2.5 Goals: 1.55
Both Teams to Score (BTTS): 2.10
Salah to Score Anytime: 1.85
Liverpool to Win to Nil: 2.20
Betting Tip: A Liverpool win with Over 2.5 Goals looks strong value. If Isak features, backing him as an anytime scorer could be an exciting option.
Match Prediction
Burnley will fight hard in front of their home fans, but Liverpool’s depth and quality should shine through. The Reds have too many attacking options, and their defense led by Van Dijk and Konaté looks solid.
Prediction: Burnley 0-3 Liverpool.
Why This Match Matters
For Burnley, it’s about building confidence. A strong showing at home could be a springboard to avoid the early slipups that often doom promoted teams.
For Liverpool, keeping momentum is crucial. With many players willing to prove themselves, especially new signings, plus the pressure of being title favourites, consistency matters. Also, integrating Isak without rushing him is part of their medium-term strategy.
Final Thought
Liverpool go into this fixture as clear favourites, but Burnley have shown resiliency and can make this difficult if they defend well and catch the Reds on counterattacks. If Liverpool use their squad depth wisely and Isak’s addition gradually, they should emerge with three points. However, underestimate Burnley at your peril: Turf Moor tends to test even the best.
Featured Image – Liverpool FC (Official Website)
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