Possible post-January Liverpool XI, with four new signings…
After a poor start to the season, which has already seen them lose six games in all competitions, there has been plenty of speculation regarding the post-January Liverpool XI that might take to the field next year.
Here is how they could line-up, based on this weekend’s transfer speculation:
GK) Neto
Liverpool are reportedly keen to replace struggling number one Simon Mignolet, and the most recent reports list Fiorentina stopper Neto as the leading target.
RB) Jon Flanagan
The Reds have continued to struggle in the full-back positions so far this season. Glen Johnson has been linked with a move away from the club, and that could leave Flanagan to battle Javier Manquillo for the starting role.
LB) Alberto Moreno
Despite a couple of costly mistakes, the most recent of which ultimately ended up costing Liverpool the points against Newcastle United on Saturday, the Spanish youngster has impressed, and will likely keep his place.
CB) Martin Skrtel
The Slovakian has had a fairly ordinary start to the season, but is the most consistent of Liverpool’s defenders and should keep his spot in the team for the time being.
CB) Dejan Lovren
Brendan Rodgers splashed out £20m to land the Croatian from Southampton in the summer, and despite some indifferent performances that price tag will surely ensure that he continues his extended run in the team.
DM) Fabian Delph
The England international is out of contract at the end of the season, and is thus free to talk to other teams in January. Liverpool are desperate for influx of grit and fighting spirit into their team, and the holding midfielder could be the perfect fit.
CM) Jordan Henderson (C)
With Steven Gerrard’s Liverpool future far from guaranteed, it might not be long until Henderson takes over the captaincy. He will be expected to be the team’s driving force, working forward and back to support all elements of the play.
CM) Asier Illarramendi
Real Madrid paid £25m for the midfielder in the summer of 2013, but he has failed to make an impact with the European champions, and could be available on loan in January. Liverpool already have a fair share of Spanish players, and this could therefore be an attractive move for the 24-year-old.
RW) Pedro
The goalscoring wide-man has reportedly fallen out of favour with new Barcelona manager Luis Enrique, and his role has been reduced yet further by the summer arrival of Luis Suarez. According to reports, he is available for around £25m, a fee the Reds are willing to pay.
LW) Raheem Sterling
Liverpool’s star player – the prospect of him being given a freer role alongside the interchangeable Pedro could bring the best out of him, rather than the current setup which has him stranded on the right flank.
ST) Daniel Sturridge
Liverpool’s premiere striking talent has been sorely missed so far this season, and the Reds will be desperate to see him leading the line again and helping restore them to form.