We don’t know exactly what Jurgen Klopp will choose to do against Manchester City at the weekend, but are boldly predicting that he’ll spring a surprise on us and field Coutinho from the outset.
The Brazilian is fully fit, is training today and performed excellently for his country during the international break.
What’s more, he has an insanely good record against the Sky Blues, bagging five goals in seven appearances against them.
Klopp’s plan this season is to field our no.10 in a deeper, creative role, enabling him the chance to feed Sadio Mane and Mo Salah – our rapid, onrushing attackers.
So despite Coutinho’s transfer request, we can’t see a better time to start than now, recognising of course that the team has done very well in his absence.
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In goal Simon Mignolet should be recalled ahead of Loris Karius. We’re going with Joe Gomez at right-back over Trent Alexander-Arnold as he’s better defensively, with Alberto Moreno getting the nod over Andrew Robertson on the other side. This is because Moreno doesn’t play for Spain and will be mighty fresh after the international break.
Joel Matip and Dejan Lovren are automatic picks at centre-back.
Jordan Henderson and Emre Can will provide energy and physicality to the midfield, but we think Wijnaldum could make way for Coutinho in the central three. New signing Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain provides an option from the bench.
Up top, the frontline picks itself, with Daniel Sturridge providing excellent backup.
Below is the side we think Klopp will go for and a likely bench:
Potential Bench: Karius, Klavan, Milner, Alexander-Arnold, Wijnaldum, Oxlade-Chamberlain, Sturridge