Liverpool will be trying to bounce back to winning ways after an energy-sapping 1-1 draw against Basel in midweek saw the Merseyside club get knocked out of Europe’s most elite club competition. Brendan Rodgers and his men visit a Manchester United side that have won their last five matches on the trot and sit third in the Premier League standings. Daniel Sturridge, Jon Flanagan and Suso continue to walk treatment rooms.
Here is the confirmed Liverpool lineup:
Goal keeper – Brad Jones
A surprise start for Australian keeper Brad Jones thanks to Simon Mignolet woeful display in recent times. Although, Rodgers’ decision to start Jones on such a big occasion rises few eyebrows.
Defence – Skrtel, Lovren, Johnson, Moreno
Alberto Moreno finds himself at left back, while English International Glen Johnson is shifted to right back. Rodgers has opted to go far the combination of Skrtel and Lovren at centre back, which has been breached on many a times this season, while pushing Kolo Toure to the bench despite his rise in form recently. It is all in the hands of Skrtel to keep the back four calm and composed while the likes of Rooney and Van Persie run down their throats.
Midfield – Henderson, Allen, Gerrard, Coutinho.
Steven Gerrard would have fond memories of this fixture last season as the Liverpool skipper converted two penalties to sink United’s Champions League hopes. However, the selection of Allen is a bit strange given that Lucas and Emre Can have been performing well recently.
Jordan Henderson could be played in a free role, while Philippe Coutinho could well come in handy at Old Trafford.
Attack – Lallana, Sterling.
Not many options for Brendan Rodgers to choose from and a pacey forward line of Coutinho, Lallana and Sterling looks set to be the plan against United. Liverpool would look to play a high line and deny space and time to the United centre-backs. Although Mario Balotelli returned to full training earlier this week, the game has come too soon for the Italian to start and finds himself on the bench along with Rickie Lambert.