The Europa League fixture in midweek, despite being seen as a disappointment by some sections of the fanbase, overall there were some constructive signs which the team can certainly build on. Most noticeable was the promise shown by Christian Benteke and Roberto Firmino who brought some spark and guile to a Liverpool side that was devoid of ideas against a stubborn and experienced Rubin Kazan side.
For the rest of the team, we can expect the same back four of Alberto Moreno, Mamadou Sakho, Martin Skrtel and Nathaniel Clyne. Ahead of them, we'll probably see Lucas Leiva paired with Emre Can. The latter of whom should be building on some exciting performances since the recruitment of Jürgen Klopp. Further up field, things get a little more interesting and will play a decisive role in today's match.
In the attacking third, I'm expecting Benteke to return to action along with Firmino both as starters with Divock Origi returning to the bench as a late option. Philippe Coutinho will likely retain his spot on the left. But will he? because this is where Jürgen Klopp has a much welcome selection headache. If Firmino and Benteke start then the two remaining places will be up for grabs between Coutinho, James Milner and Adam Lallana. Thankfully it's the manager's choice and not mine, but if it were up to me, I'd go for Coutinho, Firmino and Milner as the supporting three attackers. Still, all that said, given FIrmino's apparent frailty, it's just as likely the team from Thursday will start.
Speaking of frailty, Daniel Sturridge remains a doubt as the knee injury that sidelined him for the Europa League match has failed to improve sufficiently. This has got to be a worry. I'm beginning to think the 26 year-old is made of glass, not skin and bone like you'd expect your normal footballer to be. Maybe this is expected coming back from a long(ish) term injury but alarm bells should start ringing if this turns out to be another month or two out of the team.
A win would lift Klopp's men into sixth place and looking good ahead of the next Premiership match against Chelsea who incidentally lost again yesterday. No doubt, however they WILL be up for the visit of Liverpool so it would help to have the chest (or "Brust" as Klopp call it) puffed up with confidence for the trip. For all the negativity and blind expectancy surrounding the team they're not that far off being in the mix heading toward the run up to Christmas. Watch this space.
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