Though they failed to break FC Porto at Anfield, Jurgen Klopp’s Liverpool progressed to the QF of the Champions League this season, 5-0 on aggregate. They can now turn their attention to their trip to Old Trafford in what is one of the most awaited fixtures in the competition. The Reds are on a three-match winning streak but have failed to beat United in any of their last three attempts.
United needed late goals to get over Crystal Palace last weekend and will have an eye on their Round of 16 tie against Sevilla next week, but they will settle for nothing less than three points, especially playing at home. But the Reds are in rampant form and are expected to go for the kill. Here is the predicted lineup Jurgen Klopp might field for this tie:
Team News:
Klopp revealed in his press conference that his side has no new injury issues to worry about. The likes of Jordan Henderson, Andrew Robertson and Georginio Wijnaldum are all back to full fitness and trained normally on Friday. Nathaniel Clyne is still on his return from a lengthy injury and will not be risked for this high octane clash.
Expected lineup (4-3-3):
Defence:
Loris Karius is now the first choice under the bar for Klopp and the German should keep his place at the back this weekend. Virgil van Dijk was rested against Porto earlier in the week and should be back in action, alongside Dejan Lovren, who put in a solid shift in that game. They will have to keep a close eye on the attacking duo of Sanchez and Lukaku for United.
Though Joe Gomez did well in the UCL tie, Trent Alexandre-Arnold, made his debut at Old Trafford last year and has only become better and should keep his place in the side as a right-back. With Robertson back in action, the Scot should start in his regular left-back role.
Midfield:
Skipper Jordan Henderson had a superb night against Newcastle United and also did well against Porto. Liverpool might need his mettle and experience in the midfield this weekend. Emre Can is a regular in the first team for Klopp at the moment and is also expected to start in this game.
Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain was missed in the game against Porto but should be reinstated into the first team against the Red Devils.
Attack:
Liverpool’s attack quite picks itself, more so after Klopp rotated them earlier in the week. Mohamed Salah and Sadio Mane will look to wreak havoc on the wings while Roberto Firmino will do his thing through the middle.
Here is how they might line up:
