Liverpool host West Brom on Saturday afternoon with both sides coming off the back of somewhat frustrating doors.
Jurgen Klopp’s men couldn’t make a breakthrough against Jose Mourinho’s defensively minded Manchester United whilst Tony Pulis saw his side come close to snatching a smash-and-grab win over Tottenham, only for Dele Alli to equalise with a late strike.
For the first time all season, Klopp has a fully fit squad to choose from. He spoke at his press conference and said that Gini Wijnaldum, Adam Lallana and James Milner are all fit for selection, so any changes he makes will be down to his own choices and will not be enforced.
The last three games between Liverpool and West Brom have ended as draws and the visitors would take a point now if offered one. They’ll likely defend deep so Klopp will need to pick a team that can break them down.
Here’s the XI I think he’ll pick:
Goalkeeper: Loris Karius
Karius has looked quite nervous at times and West Brom will look to test him from set-pieces. He’ll need to maintain his focus and he should be fine.
Right Back: Nathaniel Clyne
No explanation needed. I think he’s the best right-back in the league.
Centre Back: Joel Matip
I thought he was outstanding against Man United. He’ll need to defend well on any Albion set-pieces and his ability to bring the ball out could be key if West Brom park the bus.
Centre Back: Dejan Lovren
Loren has been much improved this season next to Matip and has established himself as the first choice along with the ex-Schalke man.
Left Back: James Milner
Milner looks to have recovered from the knock he took on Monday and should start.
Centre Midfield: Jordan Henderson
I originally thought that this would be Emre Can’s position in the side but Klopp seems to think Henderson is the man for the job and it’s hard to argue. He’s having a very good season.
Centre Midfield: Georginio Wijnaldum
Liverpool missed Wijnaldum on Monday. He speeds things up in midfield and offers a threat in the opposition box. It looks like he’s fit and if he is, he should start.
Centre Midfield: Adam Lallana
Lallana has been one of Liverpool’s best players this season and looked great coming off the bench on Monday. He’s a no-brainer pick when it.
Right Forward: Sadio Mane
Mane’s had a quiet couple of games, let’s hope he chooses Saturday afternoon to make another impact.
Left Forward: Philippe Coutinho
If West Brom do decide to go with the low block, Coutinho will be key to breaking them down.
Forward: Roberto Firmino
Daniel Sturridge can have no complaints for missing out here. Liverpool have looked much more dangerous with Firmino up front.