With the tie evenly poised at 1-1 after the first leg at Anfield, Liverpool will be looking to go all out to win the match. The league leaders suffered a massive blow at the weekend as they lost 4-2 to Bradford City in the FA Cup. And if there’s ever a time to face this strong Chelsea outfit, Brendan Rodgers knows it is this.
Let’s take a look at the line-up Rodgers might send out to get the job done at Stamford Bridge.
Goalkeeper – Simon Mignolet
Despite his struggles this season, Mignolet remains Liverpool’s first choice between the sticks. The Belgian will have to be at his very best to stop Chelsea’s attacking talents from running riot.
Defence – Emre Can, Mamadou Sakho, Martin Skrtel.
Glen Johnson can be a liability against the sizzling Eden Hazard, hence a back three with the wide men providing cover should be the way to go. Emre Can has performed well in a back three recently, and should line-up alongside the dependable Mamadou Sakho and the solid, no-nonsense Martin Skrtel. Diego Costa against this defence should be a mouthwatering scenario.
Midfield – Lucas, Gerrard, Henderson, Moreno, Coutinho, Markovic.
Lucas could well be the key player tonight. The Brazilian will sit just in front of the defence and would look to snuff out those lightning quick Chelsea breaks.
Gerrard and Henderson would look to assume control of the midfield with Gerrard’s passing and vision complementing Henderson’s running ability and his desire to get into advanced positions. Liverpool’s midfield engine room has to deliver to ensure the Reds have a chance at Stamford Bridge.
Forward – Raheem Sterling
Sterling seems to be still adapting to his new, free role as the lone forward but his goal in the first leg should give the young Englishman some confidence. He’ll be a handful against a Chelsea defence not known for their sprint speeds.
