Is this how the Reds will line up for our crucial FA Cup clash…?
Brendan Rodgers is likely to name a strong team for our FA Cup quarter-final against Blackburn Rovers, as we seek a first game at Wembley in almost three years.
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He’s likely to have plenty of options available to him, with captain Steven Gerrard an outside bet to return from the injury that has kept him out for the last month.
Mamadou Sakho, Kolo Toure and Glen Johnson could also feature in the squad after missing out in recent games.
Here’s who we think we’ll select:
GK) Simon Mignolet
With Brad Jones still sidelined with an ongoing injury problem, there is no chance that Brendan Rodgers will look elsewhere this weekend. Mignolet has been in fine form recently, but will no doubt be hoping for a quiet afternoon.
DRC) Kolo Toure
Toure has been a regular in the cup games so far this season, and has not had much in the way of game time since his return from the African Cup of Nation. In contrast, Emre Can has been very busy, and deserves a rest.
DLC) Dejan Lovren
The Croatian has been steadily improving since his re-introduction to the Liverpool team, and needs more game time to continue building up his confidence. He should be one of the first names on the teamsheet for this one.
DC) Martin Skrtel
Skrtel is the glue that holds the Liverpool defence together, and will be looked to as a source of inspiration and leadership once again in this one. Blackburn possess plenty of attacking threat, so the Slovakian has to play.
MR) Lazar Markovic
The Serbian has found his game time reduced over the last few weeks, with Brendan Rodgers using both Jordon Ibe and Raheem Sterling in the wing-back role. With that in mind, he should get a start against Blackburn.
ML) Alberto Moreno
The youngster has played a lot of football recently, but it’s hard to see anyone taking his place. One possible solution would be to play Markovic on the left, but we think Rodgers will stick with Moreno to start with.
MC) Joe Allen
There should be plenty left in the tank for the Welshman after his slow start to the season. He’s been very impressive in the last few games, and will want to continue that upward trend in this game.
MC) Jordan Henderson
There’s been plenty of talk about Henderson’s future this week, with comparisons to Steven Gerrard and even an outrageous transfer rumour linking him with Barcelona. He just needs to keep his head down and keep delivering.
AMRC) Adam Lallana
The big-money summer signing looks to have been settling into his role as a Liverpool player in recent weeks, turning in a series of impressive performances. Rodgers will surely be eager to keep the £25m man going.
AMLC) Philippe Coutinho
Coutinho was given his day off against Besiktas last Thursday, so is unlikely to be rested again. The Brazilian was sensational against Manchester City last week, and will hopefully be licking his lips at the prospect of playing Championship Blackburn.
FC) Raheem Sterling
Brendan Rodgers has spoken openly about the need to manage Daniel Sturridge’s game time as he continues his injury rehab, and despite his goal against Burnley, that’s likely to mean he’s used as an impact substitute once again. As a result, Rodgers should ask Sterling to lead the line, as he has done to great effect already this season.
