Predicted Liverpool XI to face Midtjylland in the Champions League
Liverpool return to Champions League action as they face Midtjylland in their last group game of the Champions League. The Reds secured their knockout berth with a win over Ajax in the last game and will finish as group leaders. This game is a dead rubber and only the game between Ajax and Atalanta will decide who finishes second and third.
The Reds have only lost one for their last 5 games and are coming into this on the back of a 4-0 drubbing of Wolves. Midtjylland haven’t been in great form, with just two wins from the last 5. A Liverpool win looks very likely here.
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Jurgen Klopp will have a few injury concerns to deal with but if the previous game was anything to go by, he won’t be too worried. Virgil Van Dijk’s ACL injury means that he could well be out for the season. The same goes for Joe Gomez. Trent Alexander-Arnold is on his way back to fitness.
Alisson sustained an injury before the Ajax game and could be out for a while. James Milner and Xherdan Shaqiri are doubtful for this one. Also, Oxlade-Chamberlain still remains out. This could be the game where Klopp gives some more of the academy graduates game time.
Probable Liverpool XI
Formation: 4-3-3
Caoimhin Kelleher (GK)
The Irishman has leaped ahead of second choice Adrian and has started the last two games.
Neco Williams (RB)
With Arnold out for a while, Williams has been deputising well in his place.
Rhys Williams (CB)
The youngster has impressed in the games he has played so far and hasn’t disappointed in the absence of senior centre-backs.
Billy Koumetio (CB)
Matip and Fabinho are unlikely to be risked in such a game. The U-18s defender should slot in beside Williams for this one.
Kostas Tsimikas (LB)
The summer acquisition should get a start ahead of Robertson as a part of rotation.
Jake Cain (CM)
The youngster made his senior debut for the club earlier this year and could be given another crack.
Curtis Jones (CDM)
The youngster is impressing in the limited chances he’s getting. He is again expected to be afforded an outing.
Leighton Clarkson (CM)
Another academy player who is likely to be thrown into the mix after impressing for the reserves.
Diogo Jota (RW)
Jota had to contend with a substitute role against his former club in the last game but could start this one.
Divock Origi (CF)
The big Belgian is likely to come into the side as a rotation option for Firmino.
Takumi Minamino (LW)
Minamino has had a tough time in the team despite being given chances on a regular basis. Needs to make the most of these games.
