Reds to go all out against Blues with strongest side…
Having drawn 1-1 leg in the first leg at Anfield, here’s the side we expect Liverpool to start with against Chelsea on Tuesday.
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GK) Simon Mignolet
The Belgian has kept three clean-sheets in his past four matches, and it now looks unlikely that he’ll be replaced this January.
DRC) Emre Can
Played in the middle of the back-three against Bolton, Can will likely go back to the right to accommodate the returning Martin Skrtel.
DLC) Mamadou Sakho
The Frenchman has been a rock at ‘left centre-back’ ever since winning a spot in the team, and he’s a certainty to retain his place.
DC) Martin Skrtel
The Slovakian got a well-earned rest in the FA Cup, but will return to the starting XI to continue his battle with Chelsea hitman Diego Costa.
MR) Lazar Markovic
We missed Markovic’s dribbling and pace down the right against Bolton, and we looked a considerably more exciting attacking force when he came on. Hopefully the Serb will have another dynamic night.
ML) Alberto Moreno
Moreno should replace Spanish compatriot Jose Enrique at left wing-back, and he’ll have the tough task of negotiating Branislav Ivanovic and Willian down Chelsea’s right.
MC) Lucas
Arguably our best and important player since the turn of 2015, Lucas will be absolutely crucial against Chelsea’s formidable midfield. He got the better of Nemanja Matic last time, and it’d be unbelievable if he did so again.
MC) Jordan Henderson
Henderson was a real leader in the first leg, and barring a late injury – he’s a certainty to start in the centre alongside the Brazilian, meaning the rested captain can enter the front three.
AMRC) Steven Gerrard
Gerrard will be chomping at the bit to put in another decent performance. He hit the post first leg, but will be given creative licence again if selected in attacking midfield. Adam Lallana was poor versus Bolton, and will likely make way.
AMLC) Coutinho
The Brazilian will once again look to open up Chelsea’s defence with his intricate passes and combination play with Raheem Sterling.
FC) Raheem Sterling
We expect Sterling to continue as a centre-forward, despite the fact he’s more dangerous when running from a deeper position. If we need a goal late on, don’t be surprised to Daniel Sturridge make his long awaited comeback…
