Liverpool team predicted to face Sunderland in the Premier League at the Stadium of Light.
Liverpool have a chance to close the gap in the pursuit of Champions League qualification when they travel to Sunderland (20.15 GMT).
The Reds sit just sixth in the Premier League table and their title defence has been massively disappointing. And should they fail to book their spot in Europe’s elite club competition next campaign, head coach Arne Slot has admitted it will be unacceptable.
With 13 games to go, Liverpool have to make up ground after losing 2-1 to Manchester City last weekend. But with Chelsea and Manchester United dropping points to Leeds United and West Ham respectively.
However, the Reds know how difficult the game against Sunderland will be. The Black Cats are the only unbeaten top-flight team unbeaten at home, with the Stadium of Light a fortress. And Liverpool head to Wearside depleted of options.
With everything in mind, here’s a look at how Liverpool could line-up.
Liverpool team predicted vs Sunderland
GK - Alisson Becker
RB - Wataru Endo
It is a coin toss between Endo and Curtis Jones to operate as a makeshift option. Slot may just go for the more defensive player of the two, which is Endo. The Japan international is a warrior who will always give his best. It would be his first Premier League start this season.
CB - Ibrahima Konate
Was superb against City and can expect to have to clear plenty of balls into the box from Sunderland.
CB - Virgil van Dijk
The Liverpool captain kept Erling Haaland quiet against City and will have shackle fellow Dutchman Brian Brobbey.
LB - Milos Kerkez
There could be temptation for Slot to rotate the position and use Andy Robertson. However, the Reds vice-captain may be kept for the FA Cup tie against Brighton at the weekend. Kerkez was one of Liverpool's best performers against City, especially in the first half.
CM - Ryan Gravenberch
Really grew into the second half against City and Liverpool will hope that he can grab the game by the scruff of the neck. It's been a while since Gravenberch delivered a complete 90-minute performance.
CM - Alexis Mac Allister
The Argentina international's levels have been nowhere near his previous seasons, but a lack of options mean he's likely to continue.
RW - Mo Salah
The Egypt international has failed to score in his past seven matches. A big moment from Liverpool's supposed talisman is required.
AM - Curtis Jones
Slot may look to pack his midfield to combat the physical threat of Sunderland. Jones enjoyed a decent spell of form before the new year but has not started in the past five games so will have a point to prove.
LW - Florian Wirtz
There are some who feel that the flank is Wirtz's best position rather than centrally. Playing him wide would allow Wirtz to drift inside and add another body to the engine room if needed.
ST - Hugo Ekitike
Endured a difficult game against City as he spurned two big chances. However, Ekitike is entitled to an off-day and has been one of Liverpool's standout performers this season.
Mamardashvili, Woodman, Robertson, Gomez, Nyoni, Gakpo, Chiesa, Ngumoha, Morrison.
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