Jurgen Klopp got his first win as Liverpool manager at home to Bournemouth on Wednesday night, but is likely to change almost the entire side that defeated the Cherries in the League Cup.
Nathaniel Clyne and Roberto Firmino (bar 3 minutes) played the entirety of the Bournemouth game, but were so impressive they’ve undoubtedly put themselves in contention for a start at Stamford Bridge.
Here’s who we think Klopp will start for – and in truth – there’s only one selection that doesn’t really pick itself.
GK) Simon Mignolet
Adam Bogdan is a very good backup, as he proved Wednesday, but Mignolet will be back in the side.
DR) Nathaniel Clyne
Hopefully the fullback won’t be too worn out from his excellent showing at Anfield midweek.
DL) Alberto Moreno
The marauding Spaniard is in form and will be straight back in the side. He’ll need to quash some of his attacking instincts at the Bridge, though.
DC) Mamadou Sakho
Couldn’t get in the side at the start of the season, now a guaranteed starter at the back.
DC) Martin Skrtel
Skrtel loves battling Diego Costa, who is likely to be fit despite a midweek problem. Our Slovakian has the tenacity to silence the furious Chelsea forward.
MC) Lucas
Our best player this season, Lucas is shining under Klopp in central midfield – providing an unbelievable defensive presence for the side.
MLC) Emre Can
Rested for the League Cup tie, Can should be raring to go for the intense battle with Nemanja Matic and Ramires. He’s got the physicality for it. Let’s hope he has the head, too.
MRC) James Milner
Another given a midweek break, Milner’s work-rate and big game experience will be vital if we’re to return to Merseyside with a point or better on Saturday. Expect him to play on the right of a solid midfield three.
AMRC) Adam Lallana
In truth we’d love to see Roberto Firmino given the start considering his Man of the Match performance against Bournemouth, but we think Klopp will bring Lallana back in and use the Brazilian from the bench.
AMLC) Coutinho
It’s time for Coutinho to step it up. If he has Benteke ahead of him and (later in the game) Firmino to link up with, hopefully he’ll be able to rediscover his form. He’s struggled with Origi, but with better players his creativity will hopefully be maximised.
FC) Christian Benteke
Jurgen Klopp has confirmed the Belgian’s fitness thankfully, and he’ll replace Origi up top, looking to add to his three Premier League goals so far.
