Liverpool in search of Blackpool revenge

LIVERPOOL, Dec 25 (AFP) - Liverpool will visit Blackpool on Sunday determined to erase memories of their sensational loss to a club who were widely tipped as relegation certainties.

Ian Holloway's side were written off before a ball was kicked at Anfield back in October but goals from Charlie Adam and Luke Varney helped Tangerines to a famous and well deserved win over their north-west rivals. That was the lowest moment of Roy Hodgson's managerial tenure with the Reds and he is still reminded of it constantly, despite Liverpool having improved considerably since then.

"That defeat was a bad result, especially with it being at home and we want to prove we can do better and win this game," Liverpool striker David Ngog said.

"The team wasn't so confident and we didn't play very well but I think we are a different team now.

"We are a lot better and more confident and we hope we can show that on Boxing Day (Sunday).

Liverpool may be ninth in the Premier League table but they are only ahead of Blackpool on goal difference and Ngog added: "Blackpool have done really well this season. They have played some good football and they have shown they can surprise any team on their day.

"They are a tough team but if we play well then I'm sure we can beat them."

Liverpool will be able to call on Steven Gerrard and Daniel Agger, who have recovered from respective hamstring and calf injuries respectively, and the Reds will need them if they are continue on the slow path to recovery after their worse opening to a season for 57 years.