CM) Jordan Henderson
Our new captain will have to step up in the wake of Steven Gerrard’s departure, and looks more than capable of doing so. He has shown hugely increased maturity, leadership, and talent recently, and will surely be the hub of our midfield this season. He may to have to slightly neglect his roaming tendencies in this formation, but with Coutinho charged with central midfield creative duties, we needn’t be worried.
CM) James Milner
The former Man City man looks like an excellent signing so far, and has settled into a more central position than he’s used to. He or Henderson will have to play a more disciplined role in order to accommodate Philippe Coutinho and his tendency to roam in this side, but both men are able to do so.
CM) Philippe Coutinho
Our player of the season in 2014/15, the Brazilian provides the creative spark of our team. Even in this deeper role, Coutinho can be effective – as his pressing and hounding of the opposition combined with his ability to run at defences is actually maximised from this position. From here, Coutinho can feed Roberto Firmino and Adam Lallana and set the tone for our attacks.