Liverpool resume their Champions League campaign with a home game against Serbian league leaders Red Star Belgrade. This game will be played at Anfield with no away crowd, due to ongoing issues.
Jurgen Klopp’s men were not at their best against Huddersfield on Saturday but got the job done with a 1-0 win. Mohamed Salah scored a great goal to end his short-term goal drought.
A two-legged tie with the Belgrade team is very important for the Reds. Win six points and they get ever so close to qualify for the knockout round for second successive season.
For that to happen, Liverpool have to sharpen their attack a bit more. Their defence has been terrific thus far, which a testament to the manager and the players involved.
As per the latest updates, Jordan Henderson, who went off at half-time complaining about a tight hamstring, will miss the clash. James Milner is fit to keep his place, while Sadio Mane is back in full training after an intense fitness test on Monday. Naby Keita is expected to be out for this week after injuring his hamstring last week playing for Guinea.
Here’s the expected lineup Klopp can field for this Wednesday night game:
Alisson (GK)
The Brazilian has been immense for the Reds between the sticks. He will start all the league and Champions League game.
Trent Alexander-Arnold (RB)
The youngster should feature in this game after being left out for the previous two league games.
Joe Gomez (CB)
Gomez has been terrific for Liverpool this season, forming a good partnership with Virgil van Dijk. That duo should start this game together with Dejan Lovren getting a rest.
Virgil van Dijk (CB)
The Dutchman has been a colossus at the back. He is leading a defence which has conceded only three goals in nine league games.
Andy Robertson (LB)
The consistency from Robertson to always put his 100% in is fantastic for the team. He has, remarkably, developed himself into one of the best left-backs in the country.
Georginio Wijnaldum (CM)
Wijnaldum is one of the form players for the Reds this season. Played the second half versus Huddersfield, hence, should start this game.
James Milner (CM)
“Superhuman” James Milner miraculously recovered from hamstring two weeks before schedule and played on Saturday. With Henderson sitting out, the 32-year-old will lead the team against Red Star.
Xherdan Shaqiri (CAM)
The Swiss international did well in his Premier League start. He should start and be the link between midfield and attack.
Mohamed Salah (RW)
Scored a well-taken match-winner against Huddersfield. The Egyptian will be eager to open his Champions League account on Wednesday.
Roberto Firmino (ST)
The Brazilian came off the bench on Saturday due to fatigue. Expect him to lead the line from the start.
Sadio Mane (LW)
Mane passed an intense fitness test on Monday and trained. As a result, he should in the lineup barring any late twist.