Roy Hodgson hopes an empty Anfield can work in Crystal Palace's favour tonight as they aim to become the first team to inflict a home league defeat on Liverpool in 56 games.
Liverpool have failed to lose any of their previous 55 at home – with Palace the last side to win there when Christian Benteke scored twice in a 2-1 win in 2017.
Another victory tonight would keep Palace on track in their unexpected European push.
Hodgson believes that is possible and that Liverpool will miss their support, though the 72-year-old recognises the quality of the Premier League champions elect will remain on the pitch.
'We've talked about that quite a few times,' the Palace boss said. 'There's no doubt Jurgen Klopp and the players would prefer to play in an Anfield with 60,000 spectators roaring them on.
'But we've all come to terms with the fact that's not going to happen. Nothing changes in terms of the quality Liverpool have, the way they play, their organisation, their determination also to keep going despite having had the league title in their pocket for quite a while.'
Palace are currently eighth. Hodgson, who was named Liverpool manager 10 years ago next week, says there is 'no reason' why his players should not believe they can qualify for Europe.
His only concern is injuries holding them back. 'In certain areas of the field we don't have the cover,' Hodgson said yesterday via a Zoom press conference.
'Having said that I've seen Wolves play virtually the same XI for long, long periods of time and what's more take on more matches than the rest have played.
'So we could be very lucky and if we can keep the 14 or 15 senior players we have fit then I believe we have a chance.'