Liverpool’s European Journey: Starting Fresh in the Europa League
The Europa League, often seen as the Champions League’s younger sibling, is about to witness the entry of a European giant. As the Champions League gets underway, Liverpool will be shifting their focus to a competition that’s unfamiliar in recent times, but one that offers a different kind of glory.
At A Glance
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Date | Thursday, 21 September 2023 |
| Kick-off | 17:45 BST |
| Venue | Raiffeisen Arena (Capacity: 19,080) |
| TV Viewing (UK) | TNT Sports |
| TV Viewing (US) | Paramount+ |
Historical Perspective: LASK vs Liverpool
Liverpool’s European adventures have seen them face numerous opponents, but LASK isn’t one of them. This adds a layer of excitement to the upcoming fixture.
| Liverpool | LASK |
|---|---|
| Never faced in history | Reached Europa League Round of 16 (2019/20) |
| 6-time Champions League winners | 3rd in their domestic league (last season) |
Managed by Thomas Sager, LASK’s recent European endeavours and domestic performance suggest they’re no pushovers. Liverpool fans can anticipate an engaging tussle.
Squad News and Updates
Liverpool
The Reds are buoyed by the return of their towering captain, Virgil van Dijk, who has been absent since their clash against Newcastle on 27 August. His return is timely, given Liverpool’s defensive conundrums. With Trent Alexander-Arnold nursing a hamstring injury and Conor Bradley’s prolonged absence, Joe Gomez is tipped to slot in at right-back.
Midfield sees a mix of experienced heads and youthful exuberance. While Thiago Alcantara’s wait for a first-team return continues, Stefan Bajcetic and Ryan Gravenberch are likely to get minutes to impress.
LASK
As the Austrians prepare for this mammoth clash, they’re reportedly without any new injury concerns. Sageder’s men will be raring to go when they welcome the Reds to Raiffeisen Arena.
Predicted Line-ups
Liverpool’s expected formation (4-3-3):
| Alisson Becker | Joe Gomez | Joel Matip | Virgil van Dijk | Kostas Tsimikas | Stefan Bajcetic | Ryan Gravenberch | Harvey Elliott | Ben Doak | Darwin Nuñez | Luis Diaz |
The Final Word
The Reds, despite their recent trend of conceding first, boast a defence capable of shutting out LASK. With a formidable attack, they should have the edge. The stage is set for an intriguing European night.
By the Numbers
- Liverpool’s last absence from the Champions League: 2016.
- Jurgen Klopp is yet to lift the Europa League trophy with Liverpool.
- Raiffeisen Arena has a capacity of 19,080 spectators.
