Liverpool look to return to the summit of the Premier League when they face Sheffield United at Anfield (19.30 BST).
Manchester City and Arsenal’s respective victories over Aston Villa and Luton Town mean that the Reds have been demoted to third in the table. Yet Jurgen Klopp isn’t bothered about Liverpool’s title rivals’ results and is instead only focusing on his own team.
The Reds displayed resilience to earn a 2-1 win against Brighton last weekend and need another success. Sheffield United might be rooted to the bottom of the table but they won’t be underestimated.
Still, amid a busy fixture list, Klopp may be tempted to make changes to his starting line-up. Ahead of the clash, here’s the Liverpool team predicted to face the Blades.
1. GK – Caoimhin Kelleher
The Republic of Ireland international is set to make as many appearances as Alisson has this season.
2. RB – Conor Bradley
The 20-year-old was excellent against Brighton and will look to carry on his good form with Trent Alexander-Arnold returning to training next week.
3. CB – Virgil van Dijk
Liverpool’s captain has been back to his imperious best this season.
4. CB – Ibrahima Konate
Was an unused substitute against Brighton having recently recovered from injury. Klopp may hope that Konate can play 45 minutes and take him off if Liverpool have a healthy lead at half-time.
5. LB – Kostas Tsimikas
The Greece international has only made one start since recovering from a broken collarbone earlier this year. But Joe Gomez may be rested while Andy Robertson is only coming back from an ankle issue.
6. CM – Alexis Mac Allister
The Argentina international has been thriving in a more advanced role but with Wataru Endo nursing a knock, Mac Allister may have to operate in the No.6 position.
7. CM – Ryan Gravenberch
Had somewhat of a stuttering maiden season at Liverpool but will be hoping that he can impress if given the nod.
8. CM – Dominik Szoboszlai
The Hungary captain has been hitting the sort of levels he showed after arriving at Liverpool since returning from injury
9. RW – Harvey Elliott
Been one of Liverpool’s most effective players this season and Elliott could hand Salah a rest on the right flank.
10. RW – Mo Salah
Liverpool’s talisman was given dispensation not to represent Egypt during the break which was a boost.
11. LW – Luis Diaz
Scored against Brighton so will be confident and work-rate is always magnificent.
