As the 2024/25 Premier League season kicks off, Liverpool travel to face newly promoted Ipswich Town in a fixture that promises to be a captivating encounter. For Fantasy Premier League (FPL) managers, this match offers several key insights that could influence their game week selections. Liverpool’s impressive opening day record, combined with Ipswich’s formidable home form, sets the stage for an intriguing clash. Here’s a closer look at 12 crucial stats every FPL manager should consider before the action begins at Portman Road.
Liverpool’s Dominance in Opening Fixtures
Liverpool have been a force to be reckoned with on the opening day of the Premier League for over a decade. The Reds are unbeaten in their last 11 season openers, securing eight wins and three draws since their last opening day defeat in the 2012-13 season against West Bromwich Albion. This consistency makes Liverpool players a strong bet for FPL managers looking to secure early points.
Ipswich’s Return to the Premier League
Ipswich Town’s return to the Premier League after a 20-year absence is one of the most anticipated storylines of the new season. Their last appearance in the top flight ended with a 5-0 defeat to Liverpool in May 2002. However, Ipswich have shown resilience in their rise back to the Premier League, and their solid home form will make this a challenging fixture for Liverpool.
Mohamed Salah’s Opening Day Prowess
Mohamed Salah has been a reliable asset for FPL managers, especially on the opening day. Salah holds the joint record for the most goals scored on the first day of the Premier League season, with eight goals to his name. He shares this record with Premier League legends Alan Shearer, Frank Lampard, and Wayne Rooney. Salah’s ability to perform in the season opener makes him a must-have for FPL managers.
Ipswich’s Impressive Home Record
Ipswich Town have been a fortress at home, losing only one of their last 39 league matches at Portman Road. They are currently on a 21-game unbeaten run at home, with 28 wins and 10 draws. This formidable home form will be a significant test for Liverpool and could influence the outcome of the match. FPL managers should be aware that Ipswich’s strong home performances could impact the scoring potential of Liverpool’s attacking players.
Diogo Jota’s Strong Start to the Year
Diogo Jota has been in sensational form in the Premier League, contributing to seven goals in just six starts this year (five goals and two assists). Remarkably, Jota has never lost a Premier League game in which he has scored, with 39 wins and seven draws from 46 occasions. FPL managers should consider Jota as a valuable addition to their teams, given his ability to influence matches and secure points.
Ipswich’s Goal Scoring Threat
Ipswich Town were one of the most prolific teams in English football last season, scoring 92 league goals across the top four tiers. Under Kieran McKenna’s management, Ipswich have scored 222 league goals, the second most in England behind Manchester City. This attacking prowess will be crucial for Ipswich as they look to make an impact in their return to the Premier League. FPL managers should note that Ipswich’s ability to score goals could make their players, particularly forwards, valuable differential picks.
Liverpool’s Success Against Newly Promoted Teams
Liverpool have remained unbeaten in their last eight Premier League games against newly promoted teams, winning seven of those encounters and drawing one. This record suggests that Liverpool are well-equipped to handle the challenge posed by Ipswich Town. FPL managers can take confidence in selecting Liverpool players, knowing that the team has a strong track record against newly promoted sides.
Leif Davis’s Creative Influence
Ipswich defender Leif Davis was the top chance creator across the top four tiers of English football last season, providing 125 chances. His creative ability will be a key factor in Ipswich’s attacking strategy, making him a potential dark horse for FPL managers. Davis’s role in creating opportunities could lead to assists and bonus points, particularly if Ipswich manage to breach Liverpool’s defense.
Liverpool’s Strong August Record
Liverpool have lost just one of their last 22 Premier League games in August, with 15 wins and six draws. Their only defeat during this period was a 2-1 loss to Manchester United in August 2022. This strong August record further reinforces Liverpool’s status as favorites in this fixture, making their players attractive options for FPL managers.
Ipswich’s Opening Day Streak
Ipswich Town have not lost their opening league match in the last 10 seasons, boasting six wins and four draws. Their last opening-day defeat came in the Championship against Reading in the 2013-14 season. This statistic highlights Ipswich’s ability to start their campaigns on a positive note, which could make them a tougher opponent than expected for Liverpool.
Arne Slot’s Premier League Debut
Liverpool manager Arne Slot will be overseeing his first Premier League game with the Reds. Slot’s tactical approach and in-game decisions will be under scrutiny as he looks to guide Liverpool to a successful start against Ipswich. FPL managers should keep an eye on Liverpool’s line-up and formation, as Slot’s strategy could influence player performances and point tallies.
Liverpool’s Consistency Against Ipswich
Historically, Liverpool have dominated this fixture, winning 10 of their last 11 Premier League encounters with Ipswich Town. This consistent success suggests that Liverpool players are likely to deliver strong performances, making them reliable picks for FPL managers. However, Ipswich’s recent home form and attacking threat mean that this could be a more competitive match than past encounters.
Conclusion
As Liverpool seek to start their season with a victory, Ipswich Town will aim to make their return to the Premier League memorable. For FPL managers, understanding these key stats can provide valuable insights into player selection and potential point returns. Whether you’re backing Liverpool’s established stars or taking a chance on Ipswich’s rising talents, this opening fixture promises excitement and intrigue. For the best betting odds, bonuses, and online casino options, JamboBet remains the top choice in Kenya, offering unbeatable value and an unparalleled betting experience.
