Ahead of Liverpool’s must-win game when they meet rivals Tottenham Hotspur at Anfield, we’ve drawn up a combined XI.
The Reds are currently on a downward trajectory – having failed to win a single game in the league in 2017. Their solitary win this year in all competitions was a tame 1-0 win at Home Park against League Two outfit Plymouth Argyle in the FA Cup.
This turgid run has seen Liverpool drop down to fifth place, slipping out of the top four. Consequently, this makes this game all but a must-win for Jurgen Klopp’s side. Their unbeaten run against sides inside the top six will offer some respite – however, a draw or a defeat could derail Liverpool’s season further.
Tottenham meanwhile, are currently runners-up and sit nine points behind leaders Chelsea. Although it is mathematically possible for Spurs to catch Chelsea, realistically it’s unlikely that the former will overtake the latter. Tottenham’s good form since the turn of the year puts them in pole position over the Reds.
Their 1-0 win against Middlesbrough hints at a spine, mettle & grit to edge past ‘lesser’ teams – something Klopp’s side have struggled for.
This combined XI is sure to be an interesting one, with both differing in fortunes lately. Here’s how our combined XI would pan out…
Goalkeeper: Hugo Lloris
Really wasn’t a difficult choice to make. With Simon Mignolet’s poor form coupled with Loris Karius’ lack of gametime in the league for the first team, Hugo Lloris stands head and shoulders over Liverpool’s two goalkeepers.
He has exceptional defenders around him and he always inspires confidence too.
Right back: Kyle Walker
This was slightly harder to choose. Nathaniel Clyne has certainly been Mr. Reliable and Mr. Consistent this season, but his poor form recently & Walker’s solid performances just put him in front.
Centre back: Joel Matip
Liverpool’s defence has been an absolute disaster so far this season, but Matip has been one of the few who deserves to be walking out with some credit.
He hasn’t looked as solid as he was prior to his injury, but his physicality has filled the void at CB.
Shame he doesn’t have a good CB partner with him.
Centre back: Toby Alderweireld
Absolutely rock-solid at the back. I’m sure Liverpool regret not snapping him up a couple of years ago. He’s been completely unbreachable at the back. Leaving him out’s going to be criminal.
Left back: Danny Rose
Not a difficult one. James Milner’s only filling in as a makeshift LB for Liverpool, whereas Alberto Moreno clearly isn’t good enough long-term.
Danny Rose is one of the best left-backs in the league due to his legs, energy and attacking outlet – and it will be a boost that Rose will not be available on Sunday to face the Reds due to injury.
Centre midfield: Victor Wanyama
A sturdy defensive midfielder. He’s been Tottenham’s N’Golo Kante. A defensive obstacle that gives the full-backs the license to roam forward.
Centre midfield: Jordan Henderson
I was really torn up about which central midfielder I should have chosen to partner Wanyama.
It was either Henderson or Moussa Dembele. But, I’m going to just go with Henderson here, because of his leadership quality at times, coupled with his passing statistics.
Right wing: Sadio Mane
Mane gets into our combined XI by a landslide. The Senegalese has been a massive influence on the side – and how the Reds missed his presence last month when he was at the African Cup of Nations.
His direct running, energy & threat makes him one of the signings of the season, despite initial questions asked about his price tag when Liverpool signed him from Southampton.
Centre attacking midfielder: Dele Ali
One of the most creative, exciting & bright youngsters in the Premier League, Ali is a multidimensional player in midfield. I’m going to go with him playing behind the lone striker, as he’s been wholly effective there at Spurs.
Left wing: Philippe Coutinho
Hasn’t been convincing recently, but he remains one of Liverpool’s finest in the squad. His skill & flair has been integral to Jurgen Klopp’s side.
Striker: Harry Kane
Won the Premier League Golden Boot last season, and although he’s only fifth in the goalscoring charts this season, he’s the type of 20-goal-per-season striker Liverpool need. Unplayable sometimes when he’s at his best.