Liverpool suffered only their second defeat in 28 games when they were defeated in the Europa League by Toulouse on Thursday evening. Jarell Quansah’s shot was controversially disallowed deep into injury time as the Reds fell to a 3-2 defeat, leaving them with work to do to reach the knockout stages.
Liverpool will now continue their Premier League campaign against Brentford on Sunday afternoon. And now we look ahead to see what adjustments Jurgen Klopp might make when his squad returns to action.
After a dismal performance from a team that witnessed nine changes, the’midweek team’ in France may have had one heavy rotation too many. However, due to injuries and suspensions, some players may remain in the starting lineup for the weekend.
Alisson Becker will return in goal, with Caoimhin Kelleher falling to the bench and Adrian available after being ineligible for the Europa League, while Trent Alexander-Arnold is set to return at right-back, with Joe Gomez another option in Conor Bradley’s absence.
However, Gomez’s versatility means he might start at left-back ahead of Kostas Tsimikas, who was replaced at half-time in France after a terrible first half. Andy Robertson is expected to be out until the new year, therefore Luke Chambers is an option.
Liverpool’s long-term defensive midfield solution could be right in front of them
Liverpool are happy with their current holding midfield options, even if the jury is still out outside of Anfield.
Following unexpected interest from Saudi Arabia, the Reds lost Fabinho and Jordan Henderson in the summer, with Wataru Endo brought in as a veteran number six from VfB Stuttgart after attempts for Moises Caicedo, Romeo Lavia, and Andre Trindade were fruitless.
Despite this, the Japan international has had a sluggish start to his Liverpool career, starting just once in the Premier League and being withdrawn at halftime in Thursday’s 3-2 defeat to Toulouse. So far, the evidence suggests that Endo is nothing more than a squad possibility, with the 30-year-old failing to suit the Reds’ usual favored profile of signing.
Alexis Mac Allister has instead primarily lined up as Liverpool’s deeper option, despite the fact that it is not his preferred position, with his performances in the role being inconsistent and at times unconvincing. Trent Alexander-Arnold is another candidate for the position, while Stefan Bajcetic is working his way back from a long-term injury following a breakout season last year.
