**Liverpool need a win over Fulham to keep their Champions League qualification hopes alive and to restore some semblance of confidence after losing 3-0 to PSG in midweek.**
The Champions League quarter-final first leg in Paris went about as well as it could have given Liverpool’s form this season.
One notable change in this predicted lineup sees Curtis Jones start at the base of midfield.
The English midfielder has been used as Liverpool’s holding midfielder in the past, requiring dominance in possession. It remains to be seen if Slot will trust him, though.
Additionally, it would give Ryan Gravenberch a much-needed rest after he looked leggy in the 2-0 defeat to PSG in midweek.
It would also allow Dominik Szoboszlai a bit more freedom to work his creative magic compared to his normal role.
Defence led by van Dijk
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Captain Virgil van Dijk is expected to anchor the defence alongside Ibrahima Konaté, with Liverpool relying on their physicality and aerial strength to deal with Fulham’s attacking threat.
The duo will need to perform better than they did against PSG, but given they will likely return to a more familiar system than the five-at-the-back formation used by Slot on Wednesday, it will hopefully be business as usual.
Full-backs Jeremie Frimpong and Andrew Robertson are likely to provide width, supporting attacks while maintaining defensive balance.
Midfield balance with Jones anchoring
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The midfield trio offers a blend of control and energy.
Dominik Szoboszlai provides forward drive and creativity, while Alexis Mac Allister is expected to dictate tempo. With Jones sitting deeper, Liverpool could gain added stability.
Endo has only played 1,348 Premier League minutes this season, suggesting a lack of trust in the Scouser.
Front three to lead the attack
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Liverpool’s attack is expected to feature Mohamed Salah on the right, with Hugo Ekitike leading the line and Florian Wirtz operating from the left.
Alexander Isak is likely to get minutes as well, but will more than likely start from the bench to avoid re-injury so soon after his return to fitness.
The decision to start Wataru Endo instead of Ryan Gravenberch would signal a more controlled and defensively secure approach from Arne Slot.
Against a Fulham side capable of counter-attacking quickly, that added defensive structure could prove decisive as Liverpool push for another vital Premier League result.
**Predicted line-up: Mamardashvili, Frimpong, Konate, van Dijk, Robertson, Jones, Mac Allister, Szoboszlai, Salah, Ekitike, Wirtz.**