Defenders:
While Jon Flanagan should start on the right back slot, the young full back will have a game on his hands facing the burning pace of Jesus Navas in front of him. Glen Johnson should be playing in the right back role but the English International should make sure he doesn’t allow Samir Nasri and David Silva work in the pockets of space behind the front man. Martin Skrtel and Mamadou Sakho will be up against Edin Dzeko on the pitch and with the Bosnian having the ability to take spaces wide on either side to aid his midfield colleagues, the Reds’ defense must make sure they aren’t stretched and are out of position dealing with City’s impeccable attacking prowess.
Daniel Agger despite returning to training, will likely sit out this one after Sakho had a brilliant game against West Ham.
Midfield:
Manchester City’s midfield is arguably the best in England with Toure and Fernandinho holding fort in the middle of the park. Liverpool must make sure they aren’t overrun by City’s engine-esque duo in the middle. Steven Gerrard will sit deep and try to dictate his side’s tempo in his newly found quarterback role.
Jordan Henderson should start on the wide right in the wings working tirelessly tracking back and making his runs up front. It would be interesting to see whether Rodgers goes for extra protection in midfield fielding Lucas as the destroyer or giving Philippe Coutinho the start on the left wing to stretch City backline. Raheem Sterling is sure to start playing at the top of the diamond behind the deadly duo of Sturridge and Suarez up front.