Wolves have not been the same this season without Raul Jimenez. Yet they have defeated heavyweights like Chelsea and Arsenal earlier this campaign and are aiming to frustrate Liverpool further on Monday night. A top-half league finish should be the objective of Nuno Espirito Santo’s men and a victory at Molineux against the depleted Reds would boost their confidence.
Liverpool, meanwhile, have made it through to the quarterfinals of the prestigious Champions League but got humiliated by Fulham last weekend at Anfield. Their form on the road has been slightly better these days and the hosts must not underestimate the reigning champions even if they are lacking motivation. Wolves lost 4-0 in the reverse tie, and therefore, must seek revenge in the upcoming encounter.
Predicted 3-4-3 Wolves Lineup To Face Liverpool
Defence
Rui Patricio does not get the attention of Alisson, Ederson or De Gea but is definitely one of the most decorated custodians in Europe. The Merseysiders are struggling to keep it on target and would have to beat past the Portuguese even if they manage to do so.
Wolves’ trademark ‘back three’ is quite stable though with skipper Conor Coady leading from the heart of the backline. The former Liverpool academy prodigy made a howler at Anfield and should stay focused not to replicate the same mistake in the West Midlands. Willy Boly and Max Kilman have lost their starting status to Romain Saiss and Leander Dendoncker who add more balance in the defensive half.
Midfield
Daniel Podence’s injury has limited the creative spark in the middle of the park and the gaffer is relying upon Joao Moutinho and Ruben Neves who have formed some chemistry while operating centrally for a few seasons together. Nelson Semedo should get the nod ahead of teenager Ki-Jana Hoever (who joined them last summer from Liverpool), whereas the experience of Jonny should be explored down the left amid Fernando Marcal’s fitness concerns. 19-year-old Rayan Aït-Nouri has impressed with his pace and flair, however, Nuno must not risk the youngster from the start with Mo Salah featuring from his flank.
Attack
They have decent wide attacking options in Adama Traore and Pedro Neto who would trouble the Reds’ vulnerable defensive line. But the Wanderers could not replace Jimenez in the winter window despite bringing in Willian Jose from Real Sociedad. The Brazilian centre-forward is yet to fire in having appeared 9 times in Wolves’ colours, also it’s too much to ask for from Fabio Silva who is only 18 and still struggling to attune to the demands of Premier League football.
