A series of tricky fixtures lie ahead for Liverpool as they resume their campaign by hosting Chelsea on Sunday afternoon. Despite the managerial alteration, the Reds have grabbed a place at the top of the Premier League standings. But the real test begins now given the Blues’ incredible turnaround under Enzo Maresca over the past two months.
The lack of transfer activities in the summer window caused a lot of hue and cry. However, Arne Slot has done incredibly well to put his philosophy into practice with limited resources. Chelsea, on the other hand, have incredible depth all over the pitch, yet they are highly reliant on Cole Palmer who has been outstanding since plying his trade to West London from Manchester City.
Predicted 4-2-3-1 Liverpool Lineup To Face Chelsea
Defence
The absence of Alisson Becker is a massive blow for the Merseysiders. The Brazilian, who sustained a hamstring strain against Crystal Palace, is not expected to return to action before the November break. Caoimhín Kelleher has impressed as the ‘number two’ over the past couple of campaigns, and it is time for the Irishman to step in and deliver again having helped his side win two League Cup finals against the same opponents.
Amid all the speculations on his Liverpool future, Trent Alexander-Arnold is focused on his job and has worked hard to improve his defensive game since Slot’s arrival as the new Anfield boss. He would offer his creative spark down the right-hand side. Also, left fullback Andrew Robertson should reclaim the starting role replacing Kostas Tsimikas. With just two goals conceded in 7 league outings, Ibrahima Konate and the skipper Virgil van Dijk have formed a lethal partnership in the heart of the backline.
Midfield
Ryan Gravenberch has been a revelation since being converted into a ‘number six’. He, alongside Alexis Mac Allister, has formed a colossal ‘double pivot’ deep down the midfield. The Argentine, however, has been nursing a groin problem lately and it remains to be seen how the manager manages his minutes at Anfield.
Slot has a decision to make for the ‘number 10′ role following Curtis Jones’ strong performances before the international break. Yet he might opt for Dominik Szoboszlai who would offer more work rate and press in the middle of the park. Luis Diaz could grab a place down the left ahead of Cody Gakpo, but the right flank belongs to Mohamed Salah who is still going strong with six goals and five assists already in all competitions. Federico Chiesa could feature as a substitute if declared fit before the tie.
Attack
Diogo Jota offers more directness while spearheading the attack. His finishing and poaching traits keep him ahead of Darwin Nunez in the pecking order.
