How should Liverpool line up against Bordeaux?

Midfield

Emre Can – We’ve been quite critical of Can when he’s had his chance in the centre of the field but that doesn’t mean there isn’t clearly a quality player in there. Give him a chance in a less frenetic match and see what he can do.

Jordan Rossiter – Considering that the captain appears still unable to travel, the temptation here is to start Lallana but he would – once again – be out of position and Rossiter deserves a chance to show he can make the step up after impressing in his brief cameos over the past two seasons. In Milner, Lucas and Henderson’s absence, he’ll provide a little more steel in midfield than either Ibe or Lallana would offer.

Roberto Firmino – The Brazilian has shown he’s not afraid of hard work, but it’s the other side of his game we’re most excited to see and he’ll only show that through successive games. Thursday night will be a change of pace and may bring the best out of Firmino.

Philippe Coutinho – Coutinho, like Suarez and Sturridge before him, is unlikely to get many rests this season when fit and our selection is no different. If the game is going well after an hour, take him off, but he’s our only in form creative player at present so is much needed.