Liverpool might have had a quiet summer and an underwhelming pre-season, but the Champions of Europe showed their true colours against Manchester City in the Community Shield tie despite suffering heartbreak in the tie-breaker. But they are tipped to challenge the Citizens again in their quest to conquer the Premier League crown. They must be expecting a comfortable win against new boys Norwich City on Friday night to kickstart their campaign.
The Canaries, meanwhile, enjoyed a boisterous last season under Daniel Farke who led his men to script a massive turnaround despite a dismal start. They have an array of promising names in their ranks, but the Reds, invincibles at Anfield, would be the sternest possible test for a side who have just made their way back to the top flight.
Liverpool Team News vs Norwich City
Liverpool do not have significant injury woes except for Nathaniel Clyne who is ruled out for months after rupturing his anterior cruciate ligament. James Milner missed the Sunday afternoon tie at Wembley with a minor knock but is likely to be available for the Norwich game. Sadio Mane has returned from his holidays and might make it to the matchday squad unless there’s an issue with his match fitness.
Liverpool Formation vs Norwich City
Jurgen Klopp has preferred a 4-3-3 on most occasions and should not alter the same even if Mane fails to start the fixture from the left-hand flank.
Defence
The Merseysiders have replaced Simon Mignolet with Adrian who is set to be the understudy of Alisson Becker. The flamboyant Brazilian earned the Golden Gloves reward in the Premier League, Champions League as well as the 2019 Copa América and should replicate his excellence of the previous term while featuring between the sticks as the Reds ‘number 1’.
Trent Alexander-Arnold had a difficult outing against the Citizens and must work on his defensive game more. Andrew Robertson would be operating from the left whereas Joel Matip is tipped to partner Virgil van Dijk in the heart of their backline.
Midfield
Although Georginio Wijnaldum had a Sunday afternoon to forget, Klopp should line up with the Dutchman in the middle of the park alongside skipper Jordan Henderson and Fabinho. The latter would be featuring as a deep-lying playmaker. Henderson, more suited in an advanced role these days, should look to carry the ball forward and distribute in the advanced areas. The likes of Naby Keita, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, Adam Lallana and James Milner might be brought in at some stage based on how the game is shaping up.
Attack
Mohamed Salah wasted an array of opportunities against City but looked sharp, agile and in great touch while running down the wing. Roberto Firmino should offer his usual work ethics despite spearheading the attack. Divock Origi, the Reds’ Champions League hero, might keep his place on the left until Mane is introduced late in the contest.
