After a 2-0 triumph over Arsenal in the Carabao Cup semi-final, Liverpool shift their attention back to the Premier League as they take on Crystal Palace on Sunday. It is a must-win game for the Reds in their attempt to maintain the pressure on Manchester City at the top. They are currently 11 points behind the league leaders, but have a game in hand, while a mishap from Man City could open up the possibility for Liverpool to bridge the gap to just eight points.
Predicted Liverpool Lineup Vs Crystal Palace
Defence
Joel Matip remains a minor doubt for Liverpool heading into this clash after he had to be substituted as a precaution. Given the lack of depth in the side, Klopp is unlikely to take any risks, which means new signing Ibrahima Konate could be set for a start in central defence, alongside the ever-present figure of Virgil van Dijk.
There should be no changes elsewhere in defence, given the fact that there will be a two-week rest after Sunday’s affair. As such, we are expecting both the premier fullbacks in Trent Alexander-Arnold and Andrew Robertson to retain their place in the side. Kostas Tsimikas and Joe Gomez are set to serve as alternatives, should Klopp look to shuffle his pack regardless.
Meanwhile, Alisson Becker remains a guaranteed starter. The Brazilian is set to replace Caiomhin Kelleher in between the sticks, looking for his third clean sheet in four Premier League matches.
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Midfield
Moving into midfield, Klopp is missing out on Naby Keita due to the Africa Cup of Nations while Thiago Alcantara is nursing from a hip injury.
Nevertheless, Klopp has no reason to make any changes from the midfield trifecta of Jordan Henderson, Fabinho and Curtis Jones, especially with doubts over the fitness of Alex-Oxlade Chamberlain. However, James Milner is always an alternative if the Liverpool boss does opt to make at least one change.
Attack
In the attack, Liverpool are missing Mohamed Salah and Sadio Mane as their respective nations have not been knocked out of the Africa Cup of Nations just yet.
Kaide Gordon was given a start in Liverpool’s last game against Arsenal. But this time around, Klopp could opt for a slightly experienced figure of Takumi Minamino, accompanying Roberto Firmino and Jota in the LFC frontline.
