Liverpool host German club Augsburg Football Club for their second leg of the UEFA Europa League tie with a great chance of qualification. The first leg ended in a disappointing nil-nil draw and it is expected that Jurgen Klopp’s men will get the job done with the magnificent atmosphere serving as a backup support from the fans.
Injury news
Adam Lallana suffered a calm injury and there will be a last minute consideration on his fitness issues before Liverpool host Augsburg. Joe Gomez, Joe Allen, Danny Ings and Brad smith are expected to miss the game due to fitness issues with Allen, Ings and Gomez suffering some long term injuries while Brad Smith can be back as early as March.
Meanwhile, Martin Skrtel is back from his injury and he’s expected to return imminently and the Slovak has started training already.
With all these things kept in our mind, here is the predicted Liverpool line up ahead of the Augsburg clash:-
FORMATION: 4-2-3-1
DEFENCE
Jon Flanagan is eager for a run out so this is one of the positions which is un-predictable between Flanagan and Clyne and there is no confirmation on who Klopp will start against Augsburg with a huge capitol one cup finals clash against Manchester City looming large. Martin Skrtel is expected to start along with Mamadou Sakho since Skrtel has recovered from Injury and Dejan Lovren will not be risked probably since he’s just returning to fitness. Alberto Moreno is expected to take up his usual left back role.
RB: John Flanagan
CB’s: Martin Skrtel and Mamadou Sakho
LB: Alberto Moreno
MIDFIELD: EMRE CAN AND JORDAN HENDERSON
Midfield will once again see Emre Can and Jordan Henderson pair up with Emre Can playing a versatile role and holding up play while Jordan is expected to provide crucial passes and ensure the flow of the game.
WINGERS: Philippe Coutinho and James Milner
With Jordan Ibe fit to start as well and the decision on Lallana’s fitness pending, Klopp may go ahead with Coutinho and James Milner as wingers with Ibe probably getting match time in the second half. Coutinho has been a better player and largely impressive after his return from injury and James Milner brings his experience to the game as well as some leadership qualities!
CAM: ROBERTO FIRMINO
Firmino has to be the man to play this role. He’s been blazing for Liverpool and his sublime work rate against Aston Villa yielded him great rewards although a stalemate in Germany wasn’t expected, Firmino is expected to light up Anfield with his display as once again he forms the core of Liverpool attack.
STRIKER: DIVOCK ORIGI
With a massive clash against Manchester City looming large, Jurgen Klopp won’t risk Daniel Sturridge because he’s their best bet as a striker. Divock Origi did get occasional starts and he would like to impress again.