It’s widely accepted that the Europa League group stage is an opportunity for Premier League teams to trial some of their younger and less experienced players.
SEE MORE:
Grading Liverpool’s summer transfer business thus far, with Roberto Firmino topping the class
Five down, four to go – why Liverpool are more than half-way to completing a perfect summer
Three potential Liverpool starting line-ups including new signing Roberto Firmino
Unfortunately, over the last few years, our lack of strength in depth within our squad is something that has let us down – particularly during our 2013-14 campaign, when we narrowly missed out on the Premier League title.
But now, following two busy summer transfer windows, our squad is looking much stronger. With this in mind, here’s how a Liverpool second string could line-up during our fixture-packed opening to next season:
GK) Adam Bogdan
The Hungarian, who joined us from Bolton this summer, will be hoping to get some chances next season. Simon Mignolet remains our undisputed number one, so the Europa League should be a good chance for him to play.
RB) Andre Wisdom
He’s spent the last two seasons out on loan but has since returned to sign a new contract. It’s between Wisdom and Javier Manquillo for a potential spot in this team and the former has shown more quality in a Liverpool shirt.
CB) Joe Gomez
If he doesn’t go immediately out on loan, the former Charlton man will be expecting some game-time. The Europa League will be the ideal opportunity to give him his chance. Tiago Ilori will also be eyeing up this place as well.
CB) Kolo Toure
Every team needs to carry some experience in its ranks. Toure seems extremely unlikely to feature in the Premier League, despite signing a new contract, and playing in a young team such as this is surely why he’s been kept on.
LB) Alberto Moreno
The Spaniard currently has very little competition for his spot in the team, so until Jon Flanagan returns from injury he could find himself very busy. Manquillo has also been used on the left in the past so could be an option.
