Liverpool does not need to be anxious just yet. Despite Luis Daz’s late equalizer, the draw with Luton Town seemed like a loss, and that performance was followed by a Europa League defeat to Toulouse.
But it was the Luton game that took everyone by surprise. Liverpool would have expected to win in France, but they did so with many changes and with the knowledge that they still have two more group matches to play. The Reds will still win, but it was the biggest game of the players’ careers for Toulouse.
What Liverpool needs now is to ensure that the game against Brentford goes smoothly and that the Reds return to winning ways. After the international break, it is critical for Manchester City to rediscover some form and answer a few issues.
If Liverpool can swiftly regain winning form, talk of a title challenge could resurface. Drop more points and the Champions League positions could be Jürgen Klopp’s limit this season.
It is still early, and Liverpool will have another 26 league games to play after this weekend, but the Reds know better than anyone how thin the margins can be. Manchester City does not lose many points, but failing to get back into a rhythm right away might be devastating.
Liverpool.com has compiled a comprehensive list of the players available to the boss as the Reds try to return to winning ways. As many as six players are expected to be out, with Klopp’s midfield looking especially thin.
Goalkeepers: Alisson Becker, Caoimhín Kelleher, Adrián.
Defenders: Virgil van Dijk, Ibrahima Konaté, Joël Matip, Joe Gomez, Kostas Tsimikas, Trent Alexander-Arnold.
Midfielders:Dominik Szoboszlai, Wataru Endō,Harvey Elliott.
Forwards:Luis Díaz, Mohamed Salah, Cody Gakpo, Darwin Núñez, Diogo Jota.
Players who are injured: Thiago Alcântara, Curtis Jones, Andy Robertson, Stefan Bajčetić.
Players who are doubtful: Ryan Gravenberch.
Players who are suspended: Alexis Mac Allister.
