Mohamed Salah’s four-goal haul against Watford looks so long ago but Liverpool are finally back in action this weekend after the international break, as a string of testing fixtures await them, starting with a trip to Selhurst Park. The Reds play Manchester City in the QF of the Champions League just days later and Jurgen Klopp might be tempted to rest a few of his key players for this game.
Crystal Palace, who are won their last game against Huddersfield Town, have just one win in the last six games but Liverpool have not been comfortable playing at Selhurst Park and will surely be tested. Though the visitors are seven points off Chelsea in the 5th place, they have played a game extra and will look for a win in this game, to keep up the momentum. Here is the predicted lineup Klopp might field for this tie:
Team News:
The Reds have a couple of new issues to worry about after the break. Joe Gomez is out for a month with an ankle injury while Emre Can is suffering from a back strain. Nathaniel Clyne is yet to reach full fitness while Andrew Robertson, who has a dead leg, may yet be considered for this game. Dejan Lovren is also suffering from a foot injury but is also expected to fit this weekend.
Expected lineup (4-3-3):
Defence:
Klopp has trusted Loris Karius and to good effect and the German is expected to keep his place under the bar for the rest of the season. Virgil van Dijk had a productive time with his national side and will be back with Liverpool with renewed confidence. He could be partnered with Joel Matip, both of who are expected to start against City as well.
Andrew Robertson should be fit enough for the weekend and should keep his place at left-back while Trent Alexandre-Arnold is Klopp’s only option at right-back.
Midfield:
Skipper Jordan Henderson has picked up some form recently and will be crucial for Liverpool’s chances in this game, in the no.6 role. He will be accompanied by Georginio Wijnaldum and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, both of who were busy during the international break.
Attack:
The Reds have been lucky to have their front three injury-free for most of the season. Klopp can call on to Mohamed Salah, Sadio Mane and Roberto Firmino as all three are expected to start this weekend at Selhurst Park.
Here is how they might line up:
