So! Liverpool fans have finally a reason to cheer about. Post the 3-0 aftermath at the hands of Louis Van Gaal’s Manchester United, Rodgers’ men registered a convincing triumph against AFC Bournemouth this week. The boss particularly would be breathing a sigh of relief as of now, at the onset of another big game against Arsenal. The Gunners, on the contrary, seem to be on a roll at the moment. They have displayed world class form specially in the past two fixtures against Newcastle and Galatasaray, with the scoreline going down to 4-1 in both instances.
Arsenal seem to be a very strong side on paper amidst their injury concerns and Rodgers would surely not underestimate the side at any cost. The boss would look forward to set up his best line up against them. Added to this the 3-1 victory against Bournemouth would provide Liverpool the much needed boost, as they gear up to face Arsenal this weekend. Here is our take on the possible 3-4-2-1 line up that Rodgers might go for.
Bradley Jones: The Australian goal keeper was a surprise inclusion in the squad against Manchester United. Although the youngster did not have a very good first game, he did perform fairly well against Bournemouth, despite the near miss from Dan Gosling’s strike. Jones would be definitely looking for an opportunity against the Gunners and prove his mettle.
Kolo Toure: The big guy has been a very supportive player for the Reds. With Dejan Lovren due to have a late fitness test after succumbing to a groin injury, Rodgers would be keen on banking upon the Ivorian to feature at the centre back.
Martin Skrtel: The Slovak has been rather inconsistent and shaky in his approach throughout this Premier league campaign. Nevertheless, the experienced centre back is expected to be the central figure at the back for the Reds.
Mamadou Sakho: After a solid performance in midweek, expect Rodgers to go with the Frenchman as a part of the three man defensive lineup.
Steven Gerrard: The Englishman will be looking to put his dressing room bust-up with Lovren back in his mind as he prepares for another stern test against the Gunners’ attacking lineup. He would have the additional responsibility of shielding his back line, while supplying the attacking trio ahead of him.
Alberto Moreno: Liverpool fans would be hoping that Moreno will be up to the task of facing Alexis Sanchez and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain running down his throat.
Lucas Leiva/Emre Can: This is by far the toughest selection that the Liverpool boss faces. Both are quality midfielders performing up to their capabilities at the moment. However, with a 3-4-2-1 in practice, it is likely that Rodgers might opt for the young German Can ahead of Lucas in the hope that he replicates his performance that he showed against league leaders Chelsea earlier this season.
Jordan Henderson: The industrious English International was seen on a rather unconventional role against Bournemouth. However, he delivered an impressive show starting at right-wing back and it is likely that Rodgers will deploy him in the same position, given his ability to run throughout the ninety minutes up and down the field.
Philippe Coutinho: Coutinho has not really performed up to his potential recently. However, the Brazilian midfielder seems to have picked up some momentum off late and an opportunity against the Gunners does beckon for him.
Adam Lallana: Lallana played a vital role in the face off versus AFC Bournemouth. The former Saints skipper would be expecting to continue his run of success against the Gunners too.
Raheem Sterling: The Englishman has been a class apart altogether. He single handedly charged the Bournemouth attack for a toss and produced two magnificent goals. With a set of misfiring attackers at the helm, Sterling is the only option that Rodgers has at the moment to lead the line.
