With huge matches against Basel and Man United coming up, the skipper could start the game from the bench…
GK) Simon Mignolet
Mignolet endured another poor afternoon against Leicester, but with only Brad Jones in reserve, he’ll keep his spot between the sticks.
DR) Glen Johnson
With Javier Manquillo playing poorly and subbed before half-time versus the Tigers, we reckon he’ll be dropped to the bench, meaning one of either Alberto Moreno or Jose Enrique could replace him. This means Johnson taking his natural right-back role.
DL) Jose Enrique
Moreno’s cameo was decent midweek, but we think Jose Enrique will get the nod – as he did against Stoke last weekend.
DC) Martin Skrtel
Skrtel has had a bad season, but actually made countless clearances and defensive headers in the 3-1 victory at the King Power Stadium.
DC) Kolo Toure
Toure should retain his place ahead of Dejan Lovren having been pretty much faultless since winning a place in the side.
DMC) Lucas
Lucas is proving why he should have been in the team from the start of the season. The Brazilian’s combative and disciplined presence deep in midfield has set the platform for the team to win its past two matches, and he’s almost certain to be selected in the anchorman role.
MC) Jordan Henderson
With Lucas holding, Henderson will be charged with providing the midfield with energy and dynamism.
MC) Joe Allen
Liverpool have a must-win game against FC Basel on Tuesday, and a trip to Old Trafford next weekend. Gerrard played against Leicester, and although he did very well, this seems like the most sensible game in which to rest the 34-year-old.
AMR) Adam Lallana
Lallana is offering more than Coutinho right now, and should keep his place on the right of midfield as a result.
AML) Raheem Sterling
The wonderkid was scythed down regularly midweek, but caused problems when he got the ball in a dribbling position. He’ll look to punish Sunderland’s shaky right-back Santiago Vergini.
FC) Rickie Lambert
Mario Balotelli is not fit enough to be considered, and Lambert has nailed down the starting spot in his and Daniel Sturridge’s absence.
