Liverpool’s team has been confirmed ahead of this evening’s Europa League clash against LASK at Anfield, with Jürgen Klopp once again ringing the changes.
Despite making nine adjustments following the 1-1 draw with Manchester City at the weekend, Mohamed Salah is a somewhat surprise starter, with the Egyptian taking the captain’s armband. He starts alongside Luis Díaz and Cody Gakpo in a strong front three.
As expected, Caoimhín Kelleher replaces the injured Alisson Becker in goal, with the Irishman now set for a run in the side. Kostas Tsimikas retains his place after starting at the Etihad, while Ibrahima Konaté, Joe Gomez and Jarell Quansah join him in defense.
Meanwhile, it’s all change in midfield. Wataru Endō, Harvey Elliott and Ryan Gravenberch replace Alexis Mac Allister, Curtis Jones and Dominik Szoboszlai from the City game.
Liverpool will be hoping it’s a case of second time lucky this evening as it takes on LASK. The Reds missed out on wrapping up their qualification from the group stage last time out after falling to a defeat in Toulouse — they can make up for lost time tonight though, with a win over the Austrian side enough to send them through to the knockout stage.
And should Toulouse slip up against Union SG, then top spot in Group E could also be secured. That could prove crucial to Liverpool’s hopes of lifting this season’s trophy, with the second-placed sides facing an extra play-off game against the dropouts from the Champions League.
Ahead of tonight’s game, three of our Liverpool.com writers had their say on who they would have selected. See how they compare with Klopp’s side below.
James Findlater – Gravenberch gets the nod
Change will obviously be the order of the day. Caoimhín Kelleher would have been playing anyway, but his performance will take on a bit more significance given the news of Alisson’s injury.
It could be a big night too for Luis Díaz and Cody Gakpo. I’d expect both to play, and they’ll both be vying to replace Diogo Jota at the weekend. Ben Doak gets another chance on the right as Mohamed Salah gets a rest.
Midfield could be an interesting dilemma. Wataru Endō and Harvey Elliott should get the nod, but who starts alongside them out of Ryan Gravenberch and Curtis Jones? It all could depend on what the plan is for Fulham on Sunday, but seeing as though he’s still finding his feet somewhat in the side, it could be a good opportunity for Gravenberch.
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