Liverpool play Bundesliga side, RB Leipzig, tonight in the last sixteen of the Champions League. We’ve had a look at Jürgen Klopp’s likely starting eleven.
With Liverpool potentially missing 8 players for this one, Klopp has more tough decisions to make going into this first-leg clash.
Definitely out are Virgil van Dijk, Joe Gomez, Joël Matip, Diogo Jota, and Naby Keïta. Players that are doubtful are Fabinho, James Milner, and new signing Ben Davies.
With Milner suffering a hamstring injury against Leicester, it’s unlikely the veteran midfielder will be fit to take part. It’s hoped that Fabinho will return and could slot into defence.
Alisson Becker has had a tough couple of games between the sticks for The Reds. However, the Brazil international has also pulled off some wonderful saves against Manchester City and Leicester despite the individual errors that have led to goals. Klopp will be eager for Alisson to get back to his imperious best and Liverpool’s number 1 will be given the time and support to do that.
Ozan Kabak will probably get another start under his belt in Hungary (the game is being played in Budapest due to COVID travel restrictions into Germany). Trent Alexander-Arnold and Andy Robertson will slot into their usual spots at right and left-back respectively. Kabak and Fabinho will possibly be the partnership in central defence.
If Fabinho returns, that will mean a return to midfield for captain Jordan Henderson. Thiago Alcântara and Gini Wijnaldum will probably complete the midfield trio for this game.
With Diogo Jota still out injured, Klopp doesn’t have much choice with his front line. Mohamed Salah, Roberto Firmino, and Sadio Mané will be starting again.
Predicted Liverpool lineup (4-3-3) vs RB Leipzig: Alisson; Alexander-Arnold, Kabak, Fabinho, Robertson; Henderson, Thiago, Wijnaldum; Salah, Firmino, Mané
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