After coming from behind and beating Stoke City to reduce the gap at the top to six points, Liverpool will take on Manchester City in what promises to be an intriguing game. Pep Guardiola and Jürgen Klopp will renew their rivalry after quite a few tactical skirmishes in Germany. Klopp has the advantage at the moment as Liverpool have done reasonably well in the League and are potential title contenders if they can keep their consistency.
Man City haven’t done all that badly themselves. They have performed well against most of the bigger sides and the wins against Manchester United, Barcelona and Arsenal are the best three of the lot.
The two teams have a lot of similarities and play front-footed football. Liverpool are arguably the favourites for the game considering their record against the top half teams. Also, Anfield is the only ground where City have failed to win despite their domestic success in recent years. The fans will have a treat prior to the new year and here’s how Klopp could set up his team.
Defence
Simon Mignolet atoned for his mistake by denying former Liverpool midfield Joe Allen in the last game and he is likely to start considering he’s been better than Loris Karius. In front of the Belgian, Dejan Lovren and Ragnar Klavan are likely to continue at the heart of the defence. Joel Matip could be fit but considering he’s short on match fitness, and keeping in mind Klavan’s performances, it would be a risk if Klopp changes it against a returning Sergio Aguero.
Nathaniel Clyne and James Milner are expected to play as the full-backs. Milner has done pretty well for Liverpool since his move from Manchester City and is a regular at left-back, benching Alberto Moreno in the process.
Midfield
Jordan Henderson is likely to play the deepest in the midfield and he’ll have a tough task in hand as City will press when they won’t have the ball. Gini Wijnaldum is likely to start ahead of Emre Can as he has been pretty impressive with his work rate and has linked up the play well.
Adam Lallana will complete the midfield trio and Liverpool will hope he continues his incredible return this season. Lallana’s productivity has been pretty impressive this season with seven goals and six assists.
Attack
Daniel Sturridge came off the bench to score a goal but it’s unlikely he’ll be given a start against his former team. Soon to depart Sadio Mane will start on the right flank while Roberto Firmino will play on the left. Firmino’s strike against Stoke ended a six-game goal drought. Divock Origi is likely to lead the line and his pace and movement will cause the leaky City defence some problems.
