Liverpool vs Manchester City has often turned out to be the decisive contest in the Premier League title race over the past couple of years. But the scenario is quite different this term with the Citizens flying high en route to reclaiming the coveted crown amid the Reds’ dismal run of form.
Injuries have ruined the momentum of the reigning champions time and again. Also, the lack of spending spree refrained them from closing the gap despite leading the race during the Christmas period. They have lost back to back games at Anfield against Burnley and Brighton & Hove Albion, and a defeat on Sunday evening would arguably draw an end to the slender hope of title defence with an array of tricky fixtures scheduled in the upcoming weeks.
Predicted 4-3-3 Liverpool Lineup To Face Manchester City
Defence
Alisson Becker failed to make it to the squad for the Brighton game due to illness. But the custodian is supposed to train before the weekend tie and replace his understudy Caoimhin Kelleher for this engaging encounter.
Defence remains the major concern despite roping in Ozan Kabak and Ben Davies on the winter deadline. But the duo should not be rushed unless Fabinho does not make the cut recovering from his knock. The Brazilian should be lined up alongside Nat Phillips if passed fit. His return would see skipper Jordan Henderson return to his usual midfield role having featured as a makeshift centre-half in recent weeks.
Trent Alexander-Arnold and Andrew Robertson, the dynamic fullback duo must uplift their game to be more prolific and accurate in the attacking third.
Midfield
Henderson’s absence has been felt in the middle of the park as his tireless runs and long balls would be crucial to open up space in a well-organized City backline. The work ethics of Georginio Wijnaldum is essential to dominating the midfield game and breaking down the visitors’ swift passing movements. Not only would they marshall the weakened backline but also free up space for Thiago Alcantara to operate from a slightly advanced role from behind the attacking third.
Attack
Sadio Mane, too, is expected to return after missing out the West Ham and Brighton outings. His presence might create problems in the City defence, but the focus would still be on Mohamed Salah, who is leading the golden boot race. Roberto Firmino steps up on big occasions and should live up to the expectations similar to the Tottenham Hotspur game. Xherdan Shaqiri, Divock Origi and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain would be the other attacking options among the substitutes.
