The European champions will begin their journey of sealing the deal as they face Everton this weekend. The Reds would like to beat their old rivals and edge closer to the elusive Premier League trophy as Jurgen Klopp should have several players in good shape in the Merseyside derby. The congestion of fixtures could be a problem though, as all the sides would have to play back to back matches in a very short time, thus making rotation seem inevitable. Here we take a look at the possible Liverpool starting eleven as they return from the long break due to COVID-19 pandemic.
Predicted Liverpool lineup to face Everton
Defence
Although Karius is back from his loan spell with the side having five goalkeepers in the squad, there is no denying the fact that Alisson would be a nailed-on starter between the sticks.
While Van Dijk is supposed to seal one of the centre-back positions, the jury may be out on who will partner the big Dutchman. However, we feel that the German manager would not like to disturb the preferred partnership of Gomez and Van Dijk that had been operating before the break.
No prizes in guessing the two wing-backs as Robertson and Alexander-Arnold are again the choices that Klopp should go with in this big encounter.
Midfield
Club captain Jordan Henderson is undoubtedly one of the starters in the match with the Englishman operating from the centre of the pitch. Wijnaldum is yet to sort out his contract issues with the management, and that could certainly displease the gaffer. However, we still feel that eventually Klopp would feel the need of the ex-Newcastle man in the side ahead of the other options and give him a chance.
Keita has impressed in training, and thus there may be an urge to provide this 25-year-old with a chance ahead of Oxlade-Chamberlain. However, the ex-Arsenal star should be given an opportunity at the later stages of the game.
Forward
Everyone associated with the club cannot think beyond the prolific trio of Salah, Mane and Firmino and unless there is some kind of a late injury mishap, they should feature in the first team.
Minamino scored a goal the other night in the friendly and thus could be called into services if the team gets in a comfortable winning position. Origi might also have to sit on the bench.
