Liverpool 0-0 Leeds: Match Review
Liverpool team predicted to face Fulham in the Premier League at Craven Cottage.
Liverpool look to earn their first victory of 2026 when they travel to Fulham (15.00 GMT).
The Reds’ opening performance on New Year’s Day was lacklustre as they were held to a 0-0 draw against Leeds United. Arne Slot’s side were toothless and significant improvements are required in the final third. However, the visitors cannot be overzealous as they face a Fulham outfit who are dangerous and unbeaten in their past four games.
Liverpool are set to again have depleted options at Craven Cottage, with Mo Salah (AFCON), Wataru Endo (ankle), Giovanni Leoni (ACL), Stefan Bajcetic and Jayden Danns (hamstring) all sidelined, while Joe Gomez (muscle) is doubtful. There are also some concerns around Florian Wirtz, who was nursing a hamstring issue ahead of Leeds.
And with the Reds travelling to Arsenal next week, Slot may have to take that encounter into considerations. With everything in mind, here’s the Liverpool team predicted.
GK - Alisson Becker
The Brazil international was barely tested against Leeds but could be in for a busier afternoon in the capital.
RB - Conor Bradley
Was in fine form before he suffered a hamstring injury during last month’s international break. He’ll be hoping to get back to those levels.
CB - Ibrahima Konate
Was outstanding against Leeds and has avoided any glaring mistakes in recent games. Needs to maintain those standards.
CB - Virgil van Dijk
The Liverpool captain would have taken satisfaction from a clean sheet against Leeds but knows that more is needed in the final third.
LB - Milos Kerkez
Slot opted for rotation against Leeds by handing an outing to Andy Robertson. However, Kerkez is very much first choice and he’ll be tasked with contributing at both ends of the pitch.
CM - Ryan Gravenberch
Really grew into the Leeds game in the second half and needs to influence this contest from the outset.
CM - Curtis Jones
Enjoying his best run in the Liverpool team in terms of minutes and importance, although becoming more of a goal threat is what is needed to take the next step.
RW - Dominik Szoboszlai
Jeremie Frimpong excelled against Leeds but Liverpool must be cautious given he’s not long back from a hamstring issue. As a result, the versatile Szoboszlai could have to operate on the flank rather than his favoured central position.
AM - Florian Wirtz
Endured a difficult game against Leeds but it came to light he was carrying a minor hamstring issue. Wirtz may be better operating in a central role where he will be able to link the play better.
ST - Hugo Ekitike
Started off really well against Leeds but faded after having a penalty appeal rejected. He does need more support from team-mates around him, though, as he found three defenders surrounding him at times.
LW - Cody Gakpo
The Netherlands international has made two substitute outings since returning from injury. Gakpo’s form has dropped this campaign and he needs to recapture the levels that helped Liverpool win the title.
Mamardashvili, Frimpong, Robertson, Gomez, Ramsay, Mac Allister, Nyoni, Ngumoha, Chiesa.
Continue Reading