OPINION
Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp is expected to recall international stars Jordan Henderson and Roberto Firmino for Sunday’s huge Merseyside derby clash with Everton.
The Brazilian suffered a knock against Manchester United last weekend, but in his press conference earlier this week Klopp confirmed that the 27-year-old was in contention for Wednesday’s win over Watford, as per the Liverpool Echo. He didn’t end up featuring in that game, but the fact that he was even considered should mean he’s ready to return against the Toffees.
Wednesday goalscorer Divock Origi will likely drop out for the former Hoffenheim man, while Henderson can expect to replace veteran James Milner in the starting line up.
Klopp will be looking for his players to continue the momentum they generated in the big win over the Hornets, but the derby atmosphere at Goodison Park will be difficult to overcome.
Alisson is as undroppable as it gets in the Premier League at the moment, and will almost certainly continue between the sticks here. Andrew Robertson, meanwhile, holds similar status at left back and will surely get the nod once again.
Trent Alexander-Arnold excelled in a terrific outing on Wednesday and will likely keep his place as a result. Virgil van Dijk and Joel Matip have formed a solid partnership at the back of late and can expect to keep their places on Sunday.
In midfield, as mentioned, the only change looks set to be Henderson in for Milner. Klopp typically turns to his captain in big games and there’s no reason why this should be any exception. Fabinho and Georginio Wijnaldum are expected to partner him in the middle of the park.
Up front, Firmino’s likely return should see Liverpool’s lethal front three restored. Mohamed Salah and Sadio Mane will both surely start on Sunday.
