Liverpool are ready to take on Swansea after a week’s rest and with a refreshed, full strength squad. We have seen them in great form post-December, and a win on Monday night would keep them in strong contention for the top 4. Joe Allen, Steven Gerrard, Martin Skrtel and Mamadou Sakho have all returned to fitness and would contend for the starting eleven. Here is the predicted lineup.
Goalkeeper: Simone Mignolet
He’s been in good touch for the past couple of months, and no reason for him to be benched. He recovered his form at a great time.
Center Back: Emre Can
He has been a revelation in the Right Center Back role in the 3-man defense. With Sakho’s and Allen’s return, Can will go back to defense to play in the first choice back three.
Center Back: Martin Skrtel
Aggressive, passionate and decisive at times, Skrtel gives the team a presence and personality at the back. He’s set to start as the leader of the back four.
Center Back: Mamadou Sakho
Calm and composed in defending and stopping the opponent, Sakho has been Liverpool’s most reliable and consistent Center Back this season. His return would surely boost the team.
Right Wing Back: Lazar Markovic
Markovic has been another player who’s adapted pretty well to a new role. Rodgers has used his pace and energy on the flanks to good effect. Markovic has formed a good partnership with Can.
Defensive Midfield: Jordan Henderson
Vice-Captain Jordan Henderson would occupy the key defensive midfield position and influence the game from a deep position. His form has been excellent over the past few games and he could be decisive yet again.
Defensive Midfield: Joe Allen
He would be back into the side and play in a partnership with Henderson. A good passer and enforcer, Allen has made himself an important player in this squad as Liverpool have fought hard to replace Gerrard in the team.
Left Wing Back: Alberto Moreno
A natural offensive Left Back, Moreno is enjoying his more attack minded role with the guaranteed protection offered by Sakho. He guarantees width to the buildup and is a good option in defense too.
Attacking Midfield: Raheem Sterling
He has been Liverpool’s prized players this season and has been extremely important to the side when they were in their struggles. Now that the team is playing well, the pressure is off the youngster’s shoulders.
Attacking Midfield: Phillipe Coutinho
He has finally come into his own in terms of dictating the offensive third and creating chances and even scoring goals. His recent form has been excellent and has given the manager great confidence in his ability.
Striker: Daniel Sturridge
He has had a wretched season because of injuries, but he’s been firing whenever fit. With in-form Coutinho and Sterling behind him, he’s likely to be prolific and it is a no-brainer to select him for the starting lineup.