Liverpool host Bologna in the Champions League on Wednesday evening, but how will Arne Slot’s starting lineup look at Anfield?
The Reds trade Premier League commitments for European action in midweek, taking on Bologna and looking to keep up their 100% record in the Champions League this season.
Here’s how we think Liverpool will line-up at Anfield.
Goalkeeper – Alisson
Alisson will once again continue between the sticks after returning from injury at Wolves last weekend, and he will be hoping for a quiet night.
For all of Caoimhin Kelleher’s expertise, having the Brazilian back is a major boost.
Right-back – Trent Alexander-Arnold
There is a chance for Arne Slot to give Conor Bradley minutes at Anfield, but Bologna are not to be taken for granted on Wednesday night.
For that reason, Trent Alexander-Arnold should once again get the nod.
Centre-back – Ibrahima Konate
After his goalscoring exploits away to Wolves, Ibrahima Konate is expected to again start, despite his error at Molineux.
That being said, Jarell Quansah will be desperate to prove his worth if he is given a chance to shine.
Centre-back – Virgil van Dijk
Virgil van Dijk was colossal last time around, arguably standing out as Liverpool’s Man of the Match, and he will surely captain the Reds again here.
Slot will be wary of overplaying the 33-year-old, but with the international break coming after the weekend action, starting him in these next two games makes perfect sense.
Left-back – Andy Robertson
At 30, Andy Robertson has to be managed more carefully these days, so there is an argument to bring Kostas Tsmikas into the starting lineup.
The Scot is favourite to play, though, continuing to find his top form after an injury-plagued start to the season.
Centre midfield – Ryan Gravenberch
Ryan Gravenberch has arguably been Liverpool’s Player of the Year so far, so why take him out of the team now?
The Dutchman is playing with such confidence in a deep-lying midfield role and this is another chance for him to prove his brilliance.
Centre midfield – Alexis Mac Allister
As is the case with several key figures, it could be argued that resting Mac Allister and playing Wataru Endo makes sense, but we’re keeping him in the team.
Hopefully, Liverpool will be in control and a few goals clear in the second half, at which point he can be taken off.
Attacking midfield – Curtis Jones
Dominik Szoboszlai could do with a rest, following some divisive form, so this feels like a natural time to give Curtis Jones some minutes.
Using him in attacking midfield will give him a chance to showcase his flair, as he looks to kick his season into gear.
Right forward – Mohamed Salah
Mohamed Salah never wants to miss any game, and with Federico Chiesa a doubt after missing training, that likely won’t happen here.
The 32-year-old scored the winner at Wolves and will be hungry to find the net again, as he closes in on Billy Liddell’s tally for Liverpool.
Left forward – Cody Gakpo
Luis Diaz could easily start, but we think Slot may go for Cody Gakpo.
The 25-year-old can think himself unlucky not to have played more recently, but having bagged a brace in the EFL Cup against West Ham, this could be another opportunity to stake a claim.
Striker – Darwin Nunez
Diogo Jota missed training on Tuesday along with Chiesa, which may pave the way for Darwin Nunez to be given a starring role down the middle.
The jury is increasingly out with some supporters, but a few goals on Wednesday evening will silence some of his doubters.
