Liverpool fans have called on Jurgen Klopp to start Fabinho at right-back when the Reds host Manchester United at Anfield on Sunday.
The German faces a tough selection after Trent Alexander-Arnold was ruled out with a foot injury sustained in Tuesday’s Champions League win over Napoli.
James Milner initially emerged as a leading contender to carry out the role having impressed there during the recent 4-0 win over Bournemouth. The Englishman has proven his versatility throughout his career, flourishing as a left-back in place of Alberto Moreno during the 2016/2017 campaign.
Nevertheless, Reds are keen to see Fabinho utilised in a position he has played for both Monaco and Brazil in the past.
https://twitter.com/Moh_Baps/status/1073869128975478784
When Fabinho plays for Brazil it's as a right back. He started his career as a right back. He's played for Real Madrid as a right back.
— TheWool_LFC (@TheWool_LFC) December 14, 2018
https://twitter.com/NathanBrennan__/status/1073613276607594496
If United weren’t going to pack the midfield with the three biggest and gnarliest bastards possible, I’d play Fabinho right back. But as they will, I want him in midfield to destroy that threat.
— Rory Greenfield (@RoryGreenfield) December 14, 2018
I wouldn't start either one of Clyne or Millie at right back for the English classico. Preferred XI (4-2-3-1):
Alisson
Fabinho
Lovren
Van Dijk
RobertsonWijnaldum
KeitaShaqiri
Firmino
ManéSalah#LIVMUN #LFC #EPL https://t.co/akzswLXXdm
— Joseph Marah (@jmarah_arnold1) December 14, 2018
https://twitter.com/d_kgrande/status/1073656995247460352
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Hesitation on Klopp’s part from shifting Fabinho into right-back would be understandable given his improved performance levels in recent weeks.
The Liverpool boss will be keen to avoid having to disrupt his momentum having seen the summer signing begin to make his mark in a holding role.
Though Fabinho has proven an incredibly capable full-back, you can’t help but feel Klopp may turn to Milner as a safer and more assured solution.