Liverpool managed to scrape through a 2-1 win against TSG Hoffenheim in their UEFA Champions League playoff first leg following a disappointing display by the hosts. Premier league returns for the Reds as Jurgen Klopp would like to make amends for the lost points in a frustrating game against Watford last week.
They welcome a struggling Crystal Palace this week who saw themselves getting thrashed by a newly promoted Huddersfield Town side, making Frank De Boer’s life in England all the more difficult. Given the confidence and squad quality that Palace have at the moment, Klopp should see his men having an easy win over them. However, their memory of a 2-1 defeat last season should remain fresh in their mind.
Predicted 4-3-3 Liverpool Line-up vs Crystal Palace
Defence
Belgian custodian Simon Mignolet should continue taking his position under the bar as Klopp has no intention of resting him anytime soon. Following the draw against Watford, the German manager didn’t risk fielding Loris Karius in that role on Wednesday, and we expect Liverpool to field him this weekend too.
The back line is expected to change going into this game. The defensive flanks are expected to be taken by Robertson and Trent Arnold. The Spanish full back, Alberto Moreno, has finally started clicking in the Premier League now with his movements showing a glimpse of the potential he was touted to reach once.
However, with him playing twice in four days, Klopp wouldn’t risk him on Saturday again for sure. And we expect new recruit Robertson to take his place. The former Hull City left back has considerable experience in the Premier League, and could be thrown into the mix right away. Trent Arnold isn’t expected to see any such luck as Nathaniel Clyne is far from returning owing to a muscle injury.
We expect Joel Matip and Dejan Lovren to start as Klopp wouldn’t want to risk Ragnar Klavan against the likes of Christian Benteke and Wilfred Zaha. Matip and Lovren looked composed at the back on Wednesday although it was largely Hoffenheim’s fault they couldn’t win the game.
Midfield
The three-man midfield should remain unchanged with Georginio Wijnaldum, Emre Can and Jordan Henderson taking up the midfield slots. Klopp has found the perfect balance in this trio with Henderson playing the deep playing number 10. The skipper was subbed off in the 60th minute last game to give way for James Milner as Klopp wanted to keep him fit for the weekend game.
Attack
We expect Mohamed Salah and Sadio Mane to start on the flanks with new recruit Dominic Solanke in the centre forward role. Roberto Firmino has started both the games and considering Palace’s weak defence, Solanke should get a chance to open his account.
