OPINION
Liverpool can blitz Red Star Belgrade when they host them in the Champions League at Anfield on Wednesday but Jurgen Klopp must get his line-up right.
After a disappointing performance against Huddersfield Town on Saturday, which just about saw the Reds’ emerge with a 1-0 win, the German manager needs to make four changes to the side that started the game against the Terriers.
The first change must happen in the Reds’ defence as the 6ft 2in tall (Source: Transfermarkt) Dejan Lovren must be axed, despite performing well as of late, in order for Trent Alexander Arnold to be brought into the team.
Joe Gomez played as a right-back against the Terriers and while he did well, he should take Lovren’s place in the centre of defence to reform his excellent partnership with Vigirl van Dijk in order to accommodate Alexander-Arnold’s return to the team.
Alexander Arnold given his ability to burst down the flank and crossing ability should be able to carve out several chances for his side on Wednesday.
Also as the 20-year-old flyer has been rooted to the bench recently, he will no doubt be chomping at the bit to impress.
Aside from that change, Klopp must keep the same defence, as well as Alisson, that started the clash with Huddersfield Town.
In terms of his midfield trio, the German manager needs to refresh his engine room for Wednesday’s clash by playing Fabinho, Georginio Wijnaldum alongside James Milner in the middle.
These three should be able to run the midfield for their side and it’s Adam Lallana, who looked tired after a rare appearance on Saturday, and Jordan Henderson, who limped off against the Terriers, who lose their places in the team to make this trio happen.
The fourth and final change Klopp must make from his latest line-up takes place upfront as it seems Daniel Sturridge drop to the bench in order for Roberto Firmino to star.
The Brazilian had a woeful cameo appearances when replacing the English forward on Saturday but given he is no doubt aware of that, you can back him to make a statement by proving his abilities against Red Star.
Also given that Mohamed Salah rediscovered his eye for goal on Saturday and Xherdan Shaqiri was fantastic against the Terriers, then both attackers should start in their side’s upcoming Champions League clash.
The only slight difference is that Klopp should opt to deploy Shaqiri on the left as even if Sadio Mane is able to play with a cast after breaking his thumb, which is a potential possibility according to the Liverpool Echo, he should be saved for another day.
With Lovren axed and Alexander-Arnold unleashed then this Reds XI could blitz Red Star Belgrade if Klopp opts to go in that direction.
