These are the players likely to be named in Brendan Rodgers’ Liverpool starting XI v FC Basel this evening, with the Reds well aware a win will ensure qualification to the UEFA Champions League last 16.
Simon Mignolet
Rodgers has shown plenty of faith in Simon Mignolet despite some high profile errors, and he is a near certainty to start this evening.
Glen Johnson
Glen Johnson has tended to be the first full back on the team sheet recently – whether playing on the right or left side of the defence. Given we need to win tonight, Johnson over Manquillo at right back makes sense.
Alberto Moreno
Alberto Moreno has been in and out of the side recently, but like Johnson, his attacking prowess should see him granted a starting role.
Martin Skrtel
Martin Skrtel has been the most constant presence in the Liverpool defence this season, and will surely retain his place.
Kolo Toure
Kolo Toure was restored to the Liverpool starting XI for the away tie against Real Madrid, and Rodgers will hope his experience ensures an intelligent performance.
Lucas Leiva
Lucas Leiva has made a real difference in recent Reds games, adding some stability to the side and protection for the back four.
Joe Allen
Joe Allen is a player perhaps best suited to European football, with his passing game ideal for the more patient format on the continent. The Welshman is expected to sit alongside Leiva and prevent counterattacks from Basel’s quick forward line – and start off our own moves.
Jordan Henderson
Jordan Henderson’s dynamism will be vital for Liverpool going forward, while his work ethic and positional sense will ensure his defensive responsibilities are not neglected.
Steven Gerrard
Captain Steven Gerrard is set to be deployed in the more attacking position, with Rodgers counting on his skipper’s ability to produce big performances in big games.
Raheem Sterling
Sterling will be our big counterattack threat, able to dribble at extreme pace as well as thread sublime through balls and finish off chances. Despite some up-and-down form this term, he remains one of our best and most vital players.
Rickie Lambert
Our most in form forward. Lambert offers something different to the rest of Liverpool’s strikeforce, but one can’t help but think he’ll be more frequently used as an impact substitute when Daniel Sturridge returns to full fitness.