Jurgen Klopp will rotate his lineup once again for Liverpool’s Premier League clash with West Brom, which could see the ‘Fab Four’ reunited at Anfield.
Klopp’s side look to move swiftly on from derby-day frustration by making an instant return to winning ways against Alan Pardew’s Baggies.
The game now boasts extra importance for the Reds after carelessly letting another lead slip against Everton, with no more room for dropped points against struggling opponents.
Victory in such games is essential if Liverpool are to successfully challenge for a top-four spot, and Klopp could restore his attack to maximum power in attempt to secure a vital three points.
Team News
- Rotation policy to continue with same squad at Klopp’s disposal
- Philippe Coutinho & Roberto Firmino poised for starts
- Emre Can & Gini Wijnaldum also pushing for starting XI recalls
- Andy Robertson primed to continue at left-back
- James Milner, Jordan Henderson, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain & Dominic Solanke hoping to keep places
- Trent Alexander-Arnold available for defensive rotation
- Danny Ings eyeing further matchday involvement
Liverpool’s Options vs. the Baggies
Klopp’s rotation will be in force again on Wednesday night, as he continues to “use the quality” to keep the squad fresh.
And there is certainly plenty for the boss to introduce—with the likes of Coutinho, Firmino, Can and Wijnaldum all awaiting the nod.
Countless strong lineups are available, but Klopp could simply restore his side to something not far off full strength for a game Liverpool must win.
In this, Firmino could lead the line with Coutinho slotting back into midfield to reunite the lethal quartet and re-establish maximum firepower.
The refreshed Wijnaldum could also enter midfield, with Henderson retained in his deep-lying role.
And in defence, the more naturally adventurous Alexander-Arnold could start to provide extra attacking impetus:
The Baggies will arrive at Anfield with the standard plan of attempting to unsettle the Reds with basic, aggressive ‘back-to-front’ football.
So with this—and Klopp’s recent rotation patterns in mind—a more physical, solid Reds lineup could be fielded.
The Brazilian duo would still enter but instead link up with Salah in attack—allowing Klopp to continue his trend of preserving at least one of the quartet where possible by resting Mane after successive full games.
Can could then join Wijnaldum and Henderson to complete a stronger and more combative midfield unit.
Meanwhile, Alexander-Arnold’s entrance could be followed by Milner dropping in on the opposite flank, giving Robertson a chance to recharge after his first Merseyside derby in time for the looming Bournemouth trip.
The Reds must move swiftly on from derby frustration, and picking up a routine three points against the Baggies would be perfect way to do just that.
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