Federico Chiesa is expected to make his full Liverpool debut against West Ham on Wednesday evening, according to reliable journalist Paul Joyce.
The Reds trade Premier League commitments for EFL Cup action, as they welcome the Hammers to Anfield for a third round clash.
Barring the disastrous 1-0 defeat at home to Nottingham Forest in the league, it has been a highly impressive start to life under Arne Slot, and the West Ham game represents a chance to allow fringe players to shine.
That means the likes of Trent Alexander-Arnold, Virgil van Dijk, Alexis Mac Allister, Mohamed Salah and Luis Diaz could get a breather, among others.
According to The Times‘ Joyce, Chiesa will start proceedings on Wednesday evening, having made his debut late on in last Saturday’s 3-0 win at home to Bournemouth.
The Italian will presumably be deployed in Salah’s right-sided role, but his versatility does mean he can also be a threat on the opposite flank.
Our thoughts on Chiesa starting against West Ham…
Chiesa starting would be the main story of the night, assuming it happens, and Liverpool supporters will be desperate to see their new signing in action for the first time from the start.
The 26-year-old produced a lively cameo against Bournemouth, whetting the appetite, and his direct running and pace have the potential to light up Anfield when the Reds take on West Ham.
Injuries are the only concern surrounding the Italy international, but while he suffered ACL damage in the past, Van Dijk endured the same issue and has returned as good as ever.
Chiesa could prove to be a stunning signing if his availability is good, proving to be a potent weapon off the substitutes’ bench and providing healthy competition for the likes of Salah, Diaz and Cody Gakpo out wide.
The EFL Cup may be the least important of Liverpool’s four competitions this season, which is why Slot is likely to ring the changes, but the Dutchman will also know the importance of trying to win a trophy in his first year in charge, so a long run in the competition would be ideal.
