Liverpool make an eagerly anticipated return to action today (Sunday, February 6) with an FA Cup fourth-round clash against Cardiff City.
The Reds welcome the Welsh side to Anfield and will be hoping for a comfortable afternoon’s work on Merseyside.
Struggling in the Championship and without key players, the visitors may be forced to prioritise league form over a prolonged cup run.
Speaking to BBC Sport, Mark Lawrenson backed Liverpool to get through the tie relatively unscathed.
I am sure they will have a go at Liverpool, and I am also sure that Reds boss Jurgen Klopp will start with some of his squad players. He will have enough on the bench to call upon if needed though.
Jurgen Klopp confirmed in midweek that the return of Harvey Elliott could be on the cards, whilst there may also be a debut for new signing Luis Diaz.
Midfield star Thiago also made a comeback from injury following the break, as did enigmatic striker Divock Origi.
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Never has a fourth-round FA Cup encounter been packed full of such intrigue.
Whilst everyone associated with Liverpool wants to succeed in the competition and perhaps at least emulate the run to the Carabao Cup final, the added ingredient of those potentially involved contributes to the excitement.
Despite the possible presence of Diaz, Elliott is likely to steal the show having faced a lengthy period sidelined through a horrendous injury.
After what is hopefully a victorious Liverpool display, attention can turn to another interesting clash between Sadio Mane’s Senegal and Mohamed Salah’s Egypt to crown the AFCON winner.
