Our upcoming clash against Manchester United could prove huge, and both sides will no doubt be giving it their all. The rivalry between us and United is unquestionably one of the biggest in the Premier League, and there’s more than just three points up for grabs.
Brendan Rodgers will have a number of decisions to make in the wake of our crushing defeat against West Ham, not least the matter of how to remedy Philippe Coutinho’s absence.
Here is how we think Liverpool should line up:
GK) Simon Mignolet
Unquestionably first choice, the Belgian shot-stopper has improved infinitely ever since being dropped last season. He was better than the scoreline suggested against West Ham, but will need to step up another gear against United.
LB) Joe Gomez
The surprise of the season so far, the versatile young defender deserves to keep his place – even though he struggled badly against the Hammers. He’ll have to be at his best at Old Trafford, but he’s shown that despite his tender age, he’s more than capable of stepping up.
RB) Nathaniel Clyne
The former Southampton star hasn’t been totally convincing since his arrival, but has been solid recently and should keep his place.
CB) Mamadou Sakho
Dejan Lovren has been first choice so far this season, but he has once again been hugely disappointing. He was nothing short of diabolical against West Ham, and needs to be replaced by Sakho – although whether Brendan Rodgers agrees is a different matter.
CB) Martin Skrtel
One of our more reliable performers, you’d expect Skrtel to keep his starting spot for the trip to Old Trafford.
DM) Lucas Leiva
With Jordan Henderson unlikely to recover from his foot injury after missing training (via the Liverpool Echo), Lucas should continue in the holding role.
CM) James Milner
The former Manchester City man has proved an excellent signing so far, and should continue playing centrally.
CM) Emre Can
We expect Emre Can to keep his place as well, with Adam Lallana and Joe Allen also out injured (via the Metro). Our midfield will lack a bit of creativity, but will hopefully provide us with the defensive stability needed to keep United quiet.
LW) Roberto Firmino
The Brazilian will have a big huge part to play against United, as in the absence of the suspended Philippe Coutinho he is going to be responsible for much of the creative spark in the side.
RW) Jordon Ibe
Injuries may give Ibe a start, and if given a he will be the player that gives us our width. The hugely promising youngster looks set for a massive season, and will hopefully kick it off against Manchester United.
ST) Christian Benteke
The Belgian striker has been excellent since his arrival from Aston Villa, and looks set to keep Danny Ings waiting for his full debut a little longer.