6th Jan 2013 | Football
Mansfield v Liverpool Tip
Liverpool are heading to non-league Mansfield in the Cup and the team news is crucial for the betting.
Brendan Rodgers has left Luis Suarez on the bench and Steven Gerrard is rested completely to throw up some intriguing options in the first goalscorer market. Daniel Sturridge grabs the attention on debut at 7/2 (PaddyPower) but it may be a big ask for the former Chelsea man to hit the ground running in his first competitive outing for two months.
Instead, I would favour Jonjo Shelvey at best odds of 11/2 with Bet365. The 20-year-old has had very limited opportunities to shine in the Premier League as of yet but he has made a significant impact for the Reds in Europe this season. He scored four times in the group stages as he got more playing opportunities to show what he can do.
A crucial top flight goal against West Ham in December will have only have added to his confidence and Sunday will surely be a great chance for the 6ft attacking midfielder to shine for the Merseysiders.
Odds correct at time of publishing: 15:44 6th Jan, 2013 but subject to change
