Liverpool have acted swiftly in the transfer market and have acquired five players already, and it’s not even July!
With more players linked with the Reds, I’ve tried to predict what the Liverpool team will look like next season when all the players are fit.
I have gone for a 4-4-2 diamond formation, the one that brought much success in the 2013/14 season.
GK: Simon Mignolet
There was a time when Liverpool were actively looking for a new number one but the Belgian international redeemed himself and his improvement in form looks set to earn him another season between the sticks. Liverpool have bought Adam Bogdan on a free transfer to be his deputy.
RB: Nathaniel Clyne
Another Southampton player that has been heavily linked with a move to Anfield. Glen Johnson has been released and Javier Manquillo has been used sparingly, so if Clyne does arrive, he’ll go straight in.
RCB: Tiago Ilori
Choosing Ilori over Martin Skrtel and Kolo Toure may sound outlandish but I think it’s definitely possible. The young, pacey defender is having a brilliant tournament for the Portugal Under-21s in the Euros and is ready to make the step up. If he can remain injury-free, Ilori will have a big future at Anfield.
LCB: Mamadou Sakho
Liverpool look better defensively with him in the side. He brings solidity and calmness to the back line (most of the time) and is the perfect partner for young Ilori. If he can go on a run of games, he will contribute heavily to patching up that leaky Liverpool defence.
LB: Alberto Moreno
The Spaniard did not have the best of the seasons and was caught out in defence several times but he did show glimpses of what he is capable of and provided a threat in attack. A consistent back four will help Moreno settle in and produce better performances.
CDM: Emre Can
I don’t think Can is a defensive midfielder, I think he’s more effective in an offensive position. But his versatility will help adapt to that position. Having played as a centre-back for the majority of last season, he will appreciate the move forward into midfield. His powerful nature will help to protect the defence and also bring the ball forward.
CM: Jordan Henderson
A lot of people’s tip to be the new captain. His development will see him take his place in the starting XI without any issues. His determination and leadership will be welcomed by the players. The England international was in good goalscoring form last season so he will be hoping to carry that on.
CM: James Milner
Another new recruit, signed on a free transfer from Manchester City. Milner possesses bundles of energy and will suit Liverpool’s high pressing game. After Steven Gerrard’s departure, he will also put himself forward for set-pieces.
CAM: Philippe Coutinho
The Brazilian international developed brilliantly last season and scored a number of brilliant goals for his side. Playing him behind the strikers will give him the best opportunity to supply his weighted through balls and also to attack the opposition’s back line.
ST: Roberto Firmino
Coutinho may well be feeding balls to his compatriot at Anfield after Liverpool announced the capture of Firmino today. Although the Brazilian is an attacking midfielder, he is more than competent as a striker as he has displayed for Brazil and Hoffenheim. His pace, trickery and poacher’s instinct will be a welcome sight to the Anfield crowd next season.
ST: Daniel Sturridge
Liverpool are in the market for a striker. Christian Benteke, Carlos Bacca and Salamon Rondon have all been linked with moves to Merseyside but I would pick a fully fit Sturridge over them all. His goal record since joining from Chelsea cannot be matched by many strikers. He is currently recovering from another injury and once he regains his match fitness, I think he should take up the final space in the starting XI.
SUBS: Bogdan, Skrtel, Wisdom, Allen, Lallana, Markovic, Ings
