Liverpool XI vs Chelsea: Injury Woes and Predicted Lineup for Crucial Premier League Clash
Liverpool face one of their biggest tests of the Premier League season this Sunday when Chelsea visit Anfield. The Reds are gearing up for the match without some key players, and Arne Slot has his work cut out as he navigates these injury concerns. With both sides aiming to solidify their positions in the league, this fixture is expected to be a tense and thrilling encounter.
Alisson’s Absence: A Major Setback for Liverpool
One of the key storylines heading into this match is the absence of Liverpool’s first-choice goalkeeper, Alisson Becker. The Brazilian shot-stopper, a crucial figure in Liverpool’s success, has been ruled out until the end of next month after suffering a thigh injury during the 1-0 victory over Crystal Palace. Alisson’s absence presents a significant blow to Liverpool, especially with Chelsea’s attacking prowess, spearheaded by new signings and an ever-evolving frontline.
In his place, Caoimhin Kelleher is expected to step up once again. The Irishman, who has often been used in cup competitions, will be thrust into a high-pressure situation, and fans will be hoping he can replicate his solid performances from previous outings.
Midfield Options Dwindling
Liverpool’s midfield is also feeling the strain, with Harvey Elliott still sidelined. The young Englishman is recovering from a foot injury, and while his return isn’t too far away, he won’t be available for this weekend’s clash. Federico Chiesa, who was Arne Slot’s only summer signing, remains a doubt for the Chelsea game as well. Chiesa has been struggling with fitness issues since his arrival from Juventus and missed out on international duty with Italy as a result.
However, there is a silver lining in Alexis Mac Allister’s recovery. Despite being forced off during the Crystal Palace win, the Argentine midfielder joined his national team for their World Cup qualifiers. Mac Allister even featured in Argentina’s 6-0 thrashing of Bolivia after sitting out the earlier match against Venezuela. His availability will be crucial, given the depleted options in the midfield.
Van Dijk and Salah Return Early
There’s good news for Liverpool in defence and attack, though, as both Virgil van Dijk and Mohamed Salah returned early from international duty. Their early return has allowed them some additional rest and preparation time ahead of Sunday’s showdown. Van Dijk will once again be tasked with marshalling Liverpool’s defence, which will likely feature Ibrahima Konaté alongside him. Trent Alexander-Arnold and Andy Robertson should occupy the full-back positions, as Liverpool look to keep Chelsea’s attack at bay.
In attack, Mohamed Salah will be pivotal, as always. The Egyptian returned early from international duty with a view to being fully fit for this crucial match. Slot will be counting on Salah’s creativity and goal-scoring ability, especially with Diogo Jota and Luis DÃaz expected to flank him.
Predicted Lineup and Key Absentees
While Alisson and Elliott are confirmed absentees, there are still lingering doubts over Chiesa’s availability. However, Liverpool have a relatively strong lineup available, despite their injury concerns. Here’s the expected starting XI for the game against Chelsea:
Predicted Liverpool XI – Kelleher; Alexander-Arnold, Konaté, Van Dijk, Robertson; Gravenberch, Mac Allister; Salah, Szoboszlai, DÃaz, Jota.
Injured: Alisson, Elliott
Doubts: Chiesa
High-Stakes Showdown at Anfield
With both teams vying for valuable points, this match could prove to be a defining moment in their respective Premier League campaigns. Liverpool will be hoping to maintain their recent momentum despite the absence of key players, while Chelsea will be eager to take advantage of the Reds’ injury woes. All eyes will be on Anfield come Sunday afternoon.
