Firmino starts and teenage trio join Lallana on the bench but key defender is ruled out of Bournemouth clash

Posted by

The team news for today’s Premier League clash with Bournemouth has sprung a surprise with defender Joel Matip missing out.

Liverpool’s centre-back was absent for Tuesday night’s game against Leeds and hasn’t even been named as a substitute for today’s trip to the south coast due to an ankle injury.

Lucas Leiva will retain his place at centre-back having replaced the former Schalke man last time out.

Roberto Firmino’s return to the starting lineup poses as a boost for Jurgen Klopp’s side though after the Brazilian missed the EFL Cup quarter final during the midweek.

The forward suffered a minor calf strain in last weekend’s 2-0 win over Sunderland but will line up alongside Divock Origi and Sadio Mane in Liverpool’s front three.

SEE MORE:
Fantastic news for Reds fans as star man reacts to rumours of a move abroad

Adam Lallana could also feature having been named on the bench after returning to fitness.

He is joined by teenagers Trent Alexander-Arnold, Ovie Ejaria and Ben Woodburn who act as three of Liverpool’s seven substitutes after catching the eye against Leeds.

Daniel Sturridge misses out while Jordan Henderson, James Milner and goalkeeper Loris Karius step straight back into the starting eleven after being rested earlier in the week.

More Stories Adam Lallana Daniel Sturridge James Milner Joel Matip Jordan Henderson Liverpool Loris Karius Lucas Leiva ovie ejaria Roberto Firmino Trent Alexander-Arnold