Here’s an XI we reckon Brendan Rodgers could select this evening, although there’s been no online leaks as there have recently.
We can’t see the manager switching formation already after reverting to the wing-back style, so deploying a 3-4-3, this side could take the field.
GK) Adam Bogdan
He was left out of the Europa League side, but we’re sure the reserve keeper will get the nod in the League Cup.
DRC) Joe Gomez
Dropped for the Premier League game at the weekend, Gomez can expect a recall – and he fits naturally on the right side of the back three.
DC) Martin Skrtel
Kolo Toure limped out the Bordeaux game, and was left out of the squad to face Norwich as a result. For this reason we think Skrtel, Rodgers’ favourite centre-half could play in the middle of the back three.
DLC) Dejan Lovren
We reckon the Croat could come in for Mamadou Sakho, who’s played twice recently, and with Rodgers claiming fitness is always an issue for the Frenchman – it makes sense to give him a rest before the weekend match with Aston Villa.
WBR) Jordon Ibe
Ibe fits naturally in the side as a right wing-back, providing the side offensive width down his flank. Hopefully he’ll get plenty of chances to create versus Carlisle.
WBL) Jose Enrique
Alberto Moreno has done excellently during the past two fixtures, but the forgotten man Enrique might come back for League Cup fixtures. We can’t see him used much elsewhere.
MC) Jordan Rossiter
The young midfielders did very well in France, meaning they’re owed another opportunity in the League Cup. Rossiter’s a certainty to start, while Chirivella has a strong chance of doing the same.
MC) Pedro Chirivella
We’re backing the young Spaniard to partner Rossiter centrally, although Rodgers may opt to go with one of his more experienced heads instead.
AMC) Roberto Firmino
Surely the £29m summer signing needs a start in a central, creative position? Coutinho is likely to be rested, meaning the pivotal no.10 spot, Firmino’s favourite, is free.
AMC) Adam Lallana
Lallana started on the bench against Norwich, but after his excellent goal in the Europa League we think the recently fit again England international will play.
FC) Divock Origi
With Christian Benteke injured, Daniel Sturridge coming slowly back into the picture and Danny Ings having likely forced himself from a sub to a Premier League starter already, Origi could lead the line in the League Cup – allowing Ings and Sturridge to start up top v Villa.
