Liverpool return to action this afternoon with their FA Cup fourth-round tie against Manchester United, with Jurgen Klopp’s side taking the trip across to Old Trafford.
The Reds’ previous game ended in defeat in the Premier League with a devastating 1-0 loss to Burnley but this should no doubt set a fire under their bellies to return to winning ways after some really poor results since Christmas time.
Our previous teams haven’t been hitting the form that has been hoped for, with our forwards failing to score for the past four Premier League games leaving the Reds in a bit of a goal drought – with their only goals as of late coming in their 4-1 win in the third round of the FA Cup against a youthful Aston Villa side.
For me, the win over Villa wasn’t exactly something to rant and rave about but it did see us actually win a game and score a few goals in the process – but it is clear that confidence is low in the squad right now so a few switch-ups may be needed.
So, how might Jurgen Klopp’s Liverpool lineup against United today?
Formation: 4-3-3
I think most of our XI will stay the same especially in goal and in defence. Alisson is our No.1 so will no doubt start the game along with an unchanged defence from the game against Burnley, which will hopefully see the better form of Trent Alexander-Arnold and Andy Robertson return, as well as a boost in confidence with Joel Matip now back in the fold alongside Fabinho who has been fantastic for the Reds in that makeshift CB role.
Can Liverpool beat Manchester United?
Yes
No
Our midfield will keep Thiago in place with the Spaniard providing some real quality in possession as well as with his defensive capabilities. Hopefully, we will see the return of captain Jordan Henderson after his absence from the Burnley game due to a minor groin strain, with his importance in midfield needed now more than ever. I am also hoping to see a return to the midfield for youngster Curtis Jones who has impressed massively when called upon so far this season and I think his ability going forward will be a key aspect to help the Reds going forward against United.
Upfront will see the biggest change for the second game in a row after Divock Origi and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain started upfront alongside Sadio Mané against Burnley and I can still see Mo Salah and Roberto Firmino remaining on the bench for the game today. I feel as though Sadio Mané will keep his place in attack and will start the game at striker with him having played there before in previous seasons – and he will be joined by Takumi Minamino and Xherdan Shaqiri on either wing. Shaqiri started the game against the Clarets but in midfield and has impressed during his recent performances, whilst Minamino has been a bright spark going forward when given a chance this campaign and I hope he will get his chance today.
What do you think Liverpool fans, how would you lineup against Manchester United? Let us know your thoughts in the comments section down below…