Liverpool go into Sunday’s game knowing this is undoubtedly the biggest game of the season.
Forget the win against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge or the even the derby wins, all of those games are irrelevant unless we do the business on Sunday, and whilst it’s a cliche this is quite simply as important as a cup final.
As fans, as much as we love trophies, a Champions League place has become as prestigious as the cup competitions.
Liverpool travel to the recently relegated Middlesbrough in fine form. The Reds are unbeaten in the last three, taken seven points from a possible nine. Whilst the opposition have picked up one point from their last three games conceding seven goals in the process.
The prospect of Champions League football has every Red licking their lips.
Here is who we think could start for Liverpool on what was will be a crucial Sunday afternoon at Anfield.
Simon Mignolet
I can only hope we don’t see much of the much improved Belgian, but we know if need be, he’s been there for the big moments this season.
Nathaniel Clyne
I truly believe that if we were at the mid-season point, Trent Alexander Arnold comes into the team, but I doubt Jurgen Klopp will want to tinker with the team at this stage.
Joel Matip
Matip has experienced Champions League football with Schalke, and I’m sure he will be hoping to return back to the competition. His composure and ability on the ball could be vital on Sunday.
Dejan Lovren
The Croatian gave us all one of the most memorable nights at Anfield with the winner at Dortmund. Let’s hope he has another big moment in him, and no mistakes.
James Milner
Similar to Nathaniel Clyne, he really has to ensure he offers us something going forward. He will be the player other players look to in the absence of Jordan Henderson, and he needs to lead by example and makes sure everyone remains calm.
Emre Can
I feel he will be at the bottom of the diamond, and whilst many will agree this is not his best position, he provides more of an attacking threat than Lucas Leiva and out of the three ahead of him up the pitch, he’s the most suited to the role.
Georginio Wijnaldum
He will line up on the right-hand side of the diamond, he will need to provide cover if Clyne decides to drift forward, but more importantly on the attack, we need him to influence the game, as he has the talent to do so.
Philippe Coutinho
He had a fantastic game last week against West Ham from a deeper role on the left side of the diamond and I fully expect him to line up in the same position.
You’ll probably find he will be given more freedom than the other midfielders and will switch from the left central role to the tip of the diamond during the game.
Adam Lallana
With his quick feet, his decoy runs to make space for teammates and his never ending engine, Lallana will be vital to ensure Middlesbrough are put under pressure from the first minute to the last.
I feel he will begin at the tip of the diamond, but if Coutinho decides to push forward then Lallana is smart enough to spot the gap and fill in.
Divock Origi
This was tough, Roberto Firmino is back in training and will be wanting to have a part, but I think the Belgian international will be in the starting XI as Firmino isn’t familiar playing as one of the two up front.
The system of having two strikers will be key to our chances of victory. However, don’t be surprised to see the Belgian replaced after 45 minutes if things are not going to plan.
Daniel Sturridge
If it weren’t for Coutinho last week Sturridge would have been everyone’s Man of the Match.
He showed that bit of composure that to me still makes him the best striker at the club. He’s vital in this game, if he’s given the service and space I’m confident he will score the goals we need to win this game.