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Liverpool Hosts Leeds: Top-Four Battle on New Year's Day

1/1/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Liverpool Football Club hosts Leeds United Football Club on New Year's Day at Anfield to solidify a top-four place after earning 14 points from the last six Premier League matches.
Liverpool's squad will welcome Cody Gakpo and Dominik Szoboszlai back, while Mohamed Salah is away on AFCON duty.
Leeds United Football Club aims to extend their unbeaten run despite injuries, including Joe Rodon, buoyed by Dominic Calvert-Lewin's scoring form.

History

Historical Context

Established in 1888 by Aston Villa director William McGregor, the Football League began with 12 clubs, including Blackburn Rovers and Aston Villa. It became the world's oldest professional football league, expanding to 92 teams by 1950. In 1992, the top clubs formed the Premier League, reshaping English football's landscape and enhancing its global significance, with Liverpool and Leeds United continuing the legacy.

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Story summary

Liverpool Football Club hosts Leeds United Football Club on New Year's Day at Anfield to solidify a top-four place after earning 14 points from the last six Premier League matches.
Liverpool's squad will welcome Cody Gakpo and Dominik Szoboszlai back, while Mohamed Salah is away on AFCON duty.
Leeds United Football Club aims to extend their unbeaten run despite injuries, including Joe Rodon, buoyed by Dominic Calvert-Lewin's scoring form.

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