Liverpool look like being back to their old ways after slumping to a 0-2 defeat to Burnley last weekend. While it is by no means a firm conclusion regarding their Top 4 ambitions this summer, it is indeed a worrying sign to see their Jekyll and Hyde performance continue under Herr Klopp. He was supposed to come and fix what the somewhat wrongly maligned Brendan Rodgers had broken, apparently. But their inconsistent nature hasn’t stopped pursuing them with a familiar pattern emerging in their results so far, carrying on from the pre-season. Nevertheless, it is expected Klopp will rummage in the transfer market and address the defensive midfield and left-back issues as incessant calls from the passionate Liverpool supporters grow.
But they will be now shifting their focus onto the EFL match against Burton Albion whom they will be facing for the first time ever. The Championship outfit currently find themselves in a position which is vastly contrasting to a position they have been used to over the years. They will look to enjoy the occasion but an upset might be off the table after Liverpool have used up their ‘upset quota’ for the week. Klopp will avoid making wholesale changes and will be eager to book a place in the 3rd round.
HERE IS THE PREDICTED LINE-UP FOR LIVERPOOL (4-3-3)
DEFENCE
Though there will be a temptation to hand Alex Manninger a run-out, chances are Mignolet will continue building his confidence with Karius still out. Nathaniel Clyne can continue at right-back then with Trent Alexander-Arnold providing an experimental option with a good pre-season showing. Matip is reportedly fit and might be handed his first start this season. He can be paired with Lovren as it is widely believed the pair of them are the first-choice in the long term. Alberto Moreno will likely make a comeback after being pulled out of the firing line last weekend.
MIDFIELD
Emre Can will look to have a good run-out having recovered from a back injury. Jordan Henderson might be given a slightly more advanced role after a poor outing in the defensive midfield. Grujic is in line to get another opportunity to impress after a promising pre-season. Wijnaldum will drop out most likely while Leiva is still out.
ATTACK
Philippe Coutinho might be given a rest following a mere two-day gap while Sadio Mane will not be risked. Divock Origi is in line to get a game up top with Daniel Sturridge rested. But Roberto Firmino and Adam Lallana are expected to feature.
