Joe Gomez “likely” to start for Liverpool against Stoke

Joe Gomez is likely to start at left-back for Liverpool in their opening Premier League game at Stoke City on Sunday, according to reports on Monday night.

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The 19-year-old was signed for £3.5 million from Charlton Athletic this summer and has had an impressive pre-season with the Reds, showing maturity and composure beyond his years.

Chris Bascombe of The Telegraph says Brendan Rodgers is “likely” to hand a debut to the teenager ahead of Spaniard Alberto Moreno.

He writes:

Rodgers has made it clear Gomez’s youth is no barrier to his selection for such a significant fixture. Although he has played most of his career at centre-half and right back, there are no qualms about him continuing in a left-sided role.

Gomez himself appears relaxed at the prospect of breaking into the Liverpool first-team so early in his career.

He told the Liverpool Echo, “It was nice to get selected against Helsinki but there’s still a long way to go and a lot of work to be done between now and Stoke.

“I just have to keep working hard to get in the team. That’s my aim to try and play at Stoke.

“If I do start then I’m confident in my ability and I’ll do my best to help the team.

“I always like to try and stay as relaxed as possible. I do obviously feel pressure but that mainly comes from myself and wanting to do well. And wanting to perform well for my friends and family who are always supporting me. I want to do them proud.”

Stoke City vs. Liverpool gets underway at 4pm on Sunday, 9th August. Keep an eye on This Is Anfield this week for more build-up and previews ahead of the start of the new Premier League season.

Would you back Gomez to start against Stoke on the opening day of the season? Let us know your thoughts in the comments section below.