Phil Foden is averaging 2.29 fouls drawn per 90 this season in the Premier League, which is the highest in the Man City squad – slightly above Jack Grealish, averaging 2.23 fouls drawn per 90.

Foden has landed this selection in all five league starts, including against Spurs last time out in a 4-0 loss. Foden is usually heavily involved against Liverpool, landing this selection in each of his last 3 head-to-head matches. He draws a good matchup here against the likes of Alexis Mac Allister and Ryan Gravenberch.

Foden has taken up a larger role in this City side since Kevin de Bruyne has been injured. The Belgian is still yet to start since making his return, suggesting that he is not quite yet fully up to scratch.

Alexis Mac Allister scored the only goal for Liverpool in this head-to-head matchup last season, as he netted from the penalty spot. Mo Salah was off the field at the time, but Mac Allister was nevertheless heavily involved in the attacking third. He accumulated 4 shots in total, with 2 on target.

The Argentine also got on the scoresheet last time out against Real Madrid at home, as he scored the first goal of the game shortly after the second half started.

He comes into this game in great form, and should have a massive role in midfield. Given how clear-cut chances might be more scarce in this game, targeting Mac Allister, who often tries his luck from deep, seems a sensible play.

Mo Salah has drawn a foul in 14 out of 17 starts in all competitions, fouled on average 1.47 times per 90 under Arne Slot. That average rises notably at Anfield, to 1.73 fouls drawn per 90. The Egyptian was fouled twice last time out against Real Madrid.

Salah drew two fouls in his most recent start against Man City at the Etihad. He also drew one foul in a 29-minute cameo at Anfield last season, only appearing off the bench.

His ability to invite contact and utilise his strength will be key in this game. Salah will find duels against Joskvo Gvardiol and potentially Bernardo Silva in this match, which is an enticing matchup. Both players will be willing to duel, so Salah should see plenty of chances to draw a foul.

Darwin Nunez has been a prolific fouler under Arne Slot, as he seems a lot more intent on pressing from the front this campaign.

He is averaging 2.09 fouls per 90 this season – only Luis Diaz and Wataru Endo have a higher average. As Diogo Jota remains out, Nunez is once again expected to lead the line in this game against City on Sunday. The Uruguayan has made 2 or more fouls in 7 out of 10 games when playing at least 60 minutes.

He has played the full 90 on just two occasions this term, but made four fouls against Arsenal in the league, and 3 fouls against West Ham in the EFL Cup. He also committed 2 fouls against Real Madrid in the previous game, earning himself a booking.

Phil Foden landed this selection in both head-to-head meetings last season, as he managed two shots at Anfield, and four shots in the reverse fixture at the Etihad.

He is averaging 4.04 shots per 90 this season, only bettered by Erling Haaland with 5.08. However, Foden has the ability to fashion his own shooting chances, owing to his dribbling ability, which makes him a better target here. He has racked up 2 or more shots in all 11 starts this season in all competitions.

Naturally, Liverpool presents a tough matchup for the visitors, but the hosts have conceded an average of 11.3 shots per game at Anfield this campaign, which suggests chances might be available at either end of the field.

Luis Diaz performed brilliantly against Real Madrid in midweek, playing the full 90 in that 2-0 win. He managed 4 shots in that game (no other Liverpool player had more), with 2 on target.

Diaz is averaging 2.78 shots per 90 this campaign in all competitions, marginally rising to 2.88 shots per 90 when playing at Anfield.
He has accrued 2 or more shots in 2 out of 3 home games when playing the full 90.

The Colombian started in the last head-to-head meeting between these sides last season, and was excellent. Kyle Walker had a tough time containing him, as he found himself targeted defensively at times. In total, Luis Diaz managed 2 shots in a 90 minute appearance to land this selection.