Predicted Liverpool line-up: Reds XI for Real Madrid…
Here is the team that we think should take on Real Madrid in Tuesday’s crucial Champions League clash, where defeat for the Reds could leave us on the verge of elimination from the competition.
GK) Simon Mignolet
The Belgian goalkeeper will remain the obvious number one until any potential new arrival, and he will definitely be between the sticks in Madrid.
RB) Javi Manquillo
Despite Glen Johnson being fully fit, former Atletico Madrid defender Javi Manquillo is set to earn the chance to face his old city rivals.
CB) Martin Skrtel
Skrtel has been relatively disappointing so far this season, especially in comparison with his exploits of the previous campaign. But it’s hard to look beyond him in such an important game.
CB) Kolo Toure
Kolo Toure has actually played in a victory at Estadio Santiago Bernabeu, keeping a clean sheet in a 0-1 victory for Arsenal. The trouble is, that was in 2008. Brendan Rodgers would be taking a big risk starting the Ivorian again here.
LB) Alberto Moreno
The young Spaniard will be desperate to atone for his costly error against Newcastle at the weekend, and what better time to do it than against the European Champions?
DM) Lucas Leiva
Joe Allen has struggled to impress in recent weeks, and this is surely the ideal opportunity to play someone of Lucas’ more defensive mindset. By having him to sit in front of the back four, it will allow his fellow midfielders to focus on supplying the forwards.
CM) Emre Can
With reports Steven Gerrard could be rested, Brendan Rodgers could trust Emre Can with a role in the midfield.
RM) Joe Allen
Joe Allen is set to be deployed in an unfamiliar wide right berth, with Jordan Henderson too set for a place on the bench.
LM) Adam Lallana
Adam Lallana joined Liverpool precisely to play in this sort of game, and with Philippe Coutinho’s form somewhat up and down this season, Brendan Rodgers may trust the England playmaker.
CAM) Lazar Markovic
Teenage starlet Lazar Markovic has had an underwhelming start to his Reds career to date, but looks set to start in Raheem Sterling’s best position as the central attacking midfielder. His pace will be vital on the counterattack.
ST) Fabio Borini
Fabio Borini is yet to find the back of the net this season, but his work-rate could prove invaluable against the Real Madrid back line.