Liverpool are back in the Champions League after a tiring and injury-stricken international break for the players of the first-team squad. The Reds are still in great form despite so many injuries to the stars of the team with a great performance in the Premier League. Tomorrow, Klopp’s men will take on Atalanta as Liverpool look to keep their unbeaten streak alive at Anfield.
According to Klopp’s recent press conference, Mo Salah is set to come back to the Liverpool squad for the first time after testing positive for the coronavirus. But Nabi Keita has again been added to the already long injury list for Liverpool, due to an injury against Leicester. Thus it will be interesting to see how Klopp selects his team especially his midfield.
Let us now have a look at how Jurgen Klopp might set his Liverpool side up against Atalanta in the Champions League at Anfield.
THE 4-3-3
With Matip and Fabinho both fit to play full games, Liverpool look strong on paper yet again despite all other injuries to the players in the first-team squad. With Alexander-Arnold’s injury, Milner slotted in at right-back against Leicester, but he is likely to play midfield tomorrow with Keita’s injury. Thus, it will be expected of Neco Williams to come in at right-back and fill up the spot with the same amount of energy and creativity as Alexander-Arnold.
Curtis Jones and Wijnaldum are the only fit midfielders in the Liverpool squad and will be expected to start and carry on the midfield battle. Both the midfielders have done extremely well lately and have rotated the ball, created chances and also shielded the defence. The trio of Firmino, Mane and Jota will be expected to lead the line as all the three strikers have done wonders together and haven’t let anyone feel the absence of Mo Salah.
The Egyptian might play a cameo for Liverpool tomorrow as he has recovered from the coronavirus. He might not be fit enough to play the entire game and Klopp will surely not risk Salah.
THE 4-2-3-1
Jurgen Klopp might also go for the 4-2-3-1 system tomorrow as it gives the Liverpool defence more protection, which is much-needed against a very attacking Atalanta side. It will also allow Liverpool to play the experienced James Milner at right-back rather than young Neco Williams. The right-wing position can be filled up by the likes of Shaqiri or Minamino as both have impressed whenever called into action.
In such a system, Firmino is very likely to drop to the midfield, which is his favourite spot as he will have space and will be allowed to participate in the build-up play. The Brazilian has the vision and flair to bring Jota and Mane into play who will be sent with the responsibility of scoring goals. Wijnaldum and Curtis Jones will be in a double pivot protecting the full-backs while they bomb forward to join in the attack.
Unlike last time, where Liverpool romped to victory, this time it might be a clutch encounter as Atalanta won’t back down and will attack whenever possible.
