The Reds kick off their European action later this month, and Brendan Rodgers has recently announced his 21-man squad.
Full squad: Mignolet, Bogdan, Clyne, Gomez, Toure, Lovren, Sakho, Skrtel, Moreno, Lucas, Henderson (C), Can, Milner, Allen, Lallana, Coutinho, Firmino, Origi, Ings, Sturridge, Benteke
As you may have noticed, Jordon Ibe’s name is not on the list, but because of his young age – he qualifies for Liverpool’s B-list. Jose Enrique, though, doesn’t. The left-back, who looked almost certain to move to West Brom on deadline day, has seen his future at Liverpool smashed to pieces.
I’m certainly happy to see Daniel Sturridge’s name on there. It’s not a surprise, but it’s a reminder to me that it won’t be long until he’s *hopefully* firing for the mighty reds again.
I also think these games are perfect for easing Sturridge back in and not putting too much pressure on the striker. There is bound to be pressure on him, simply down to how good we all know he can be.
I was hoping to see more of Lazar Markovic in this competition before his loan spell was announced. The likes of Ings and Origi will surely get their chance in the group stage.
Mamadou Sakho, who has seen his first-team chances become very limited, will be desperate to show Brendan what he can do and somehow force his way back into the Northern Irishman’s plans.
Adam Bogdan may get a few chances to rest Simon Mignolet. Joe Allen, who is currently injured, will be eager to get some minutes under his belt; the same with Lucas (assuming he drops out of the side when Henderson returns).
