Liverpool team predicted to face AFC Bournemouth in the Premier League.
Liverpool look to stretch their unbeaten run to 14 matches when they make the trip to AFC Bournemouth (17.30 GMT).
The Reds have faced difficulties this season but there is hope that a corner has been turned. While Arne Slot’s side were held to a 1-1 draw against lowly Burnley last weekend, there was encouragement from the first half in particular. And the 3-0 victory over Marseille in the Champions League was one of Liverpool’s best performances this term.
Now, momentum needs to be built in the Premier League. The Reds’ title defence has been over for months and they have a battle to finish in the top four. That is still very achievable, with Slot confident that his troops can pull away from the chasing pack.
Liverpool face a Bournemouth side that drew 1-1 against Brighton in their previous game. The Cherries have dropped to 15th in the table after winning just once in their past 14 games, while the sale of Antoine Semenyo to Manchester City was a hammer blow.
Slot could be without five players, with Ibrahima Konate given compassionate leave following the passing of his father. Conor Bradley and Giovanni Leoni have long-term knee injuries, while Federico Chiesa is doubtful.
With everything in mind, here’s the Liverpool team predicted.
GK - Alisson Becker
The Brazil No.1 made two fine saves against Marseille and he’ll be expected to be called into action at Bournemouth.
RB - Jeremie Frimpong
Slot knows that it is somewhat of a risk with Frimpong playing so many games given he’s had two hamstring injuries this season. But Liverpool are short at the back, while Frimpong is in excellent form.
CB - Joe Gomez
Liverpool’s longest-serving player was excellent against Marseille, especially given his lack of football. But because Gomez has had a dearth of minutes, coupled with fitness issues over the past few years, it might be another risk to start him. Yet it’s one that Slot will have to take.
LB - Milos Kerkez
The Hungarian’s buccaneering performances at Bournemouth are why he earned a £40 million move to Liverpool. After a tough start, he’s been superb in recent weeks.
CM - Ryan Gravenberch
Started every Premier League and Champions League game this season and there is no reason why Gravenberch will not keep his starting spot.
CM - Dominik Szoboszlai
Been so important this campaign playing in several positions. Some supporters have wanted to see Szoboszlai playing in a deeper role and they could get their wish.
RW - Mo Salah
Missed a big chance at Marseille on his return from the African Cup of Nations, but Salah has a tremendous goalscoring record against Bournemouth.
AM - Florian Wirtz
The £100 million summer signing has really found his rhythm after a soft launch to his Liverpool career. Giving him freedom on a tight pitch could be important.
LW - Cody Gakpo
The Dutchman made an impact off the bench against Marseille, burying his late chance and also creating Salah’s chance. Hopefully a turning point for his stuttering form this season.
ST - Hugo Ekitike
So unlucky to have hit the post against Marseille and he’ll be hoping to add to his tally of 12 goals already this campaign.
Mamardashvili, Woodman, Robertson, Ramsay, Endo, Mac Allister, Jones, Nyoni, Ngumoha
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