This Sunday sees the Reds head over Stanley Park to take on Everton in the 233rd Merseyside Derby. But before that, we still need to overcome a stubborn Watford side at Anfield who aren’t playing half bad at the moment.
While we failed to deservedly slay the old enemy at Old Trafford on Sunday, one of the worst events of that afternoon was surely losing Roberto Firmino in the first half. Thankfully, James Pearce of the Liverpool Echo has reported that things may not be as bad as previously feared.
Klopp on Firmino: “It looks good, we were obviously lucky. It will be very close for tomorrow but big chance for the derby.” #LFC
— James Pearce (@JamesPearceEcho) February 26, 2019
Speaking in his pre-match Watford press conference, Klopp assuaged our concerns a bit and it looks like Bobby might be ready to go for Sunday instead. He does have a superhuman knack of getting himself fit, in fairness.
“It’s possible Bobby won’t be involved but we have options and we’ll use those at the start of the game and then possibly another option in the second half,” Klopp told his Melwood press-conference.
“Watford don’t know what we are doing…”
It’s true that this might offer up the element of surprise, but the Hornets will know that it’s either the prospect of Sturridge or Origi through the middle; and if not, the somewhat more favourable option of a 4-2-3-1 with Salah playing up front and Shaqiri taking up his place on the right.
That might also allow us to get Keïta in a more attacking role, with Wijnaldum and Fabinho taking up midfield enforcement duties in a two-man pivot.
We’ll definitely miss Bobby’s work rate, on and off the ball, and his unerring ability to usually showcase at least one piece of gilded skill. But we can still get the job done without him and trust in the boys who play on the day to get us over the line.
Anfield is still a fortress and the smart money is on a Liverpool win – with or without Firmino.