Liverpool’s Upcoming Test Against Crystal Palace: Team News and Lineup Options
Liverpool’s next challenge in their quest to prove their title credentials this month comes against Crystal Palace, and Jurgen Klopp has a lot to consider when selecting his team.
The Reds maintained their momentum with a victory over Sheffield United, keeping them within two points of league leaders Arsenal.
However, a reunion with former manager Roy Hodgson stands in the way of heading into the highly anticipated clash against Manchester United with three successive wins. Therefore, we can expect several changes in the lineup for this match. Let’s take a closer look at the options available to the Liverpool boss.
Team News
According to Klopp’s recent press conference, Alexis Mac Allister is unavailable for selection as he is dealing with an injury. Additionally, Alisson is back in training but is unlikely to be ready for this game. Klopp emphasized the need for the squad to overcome difficulties and thrive during the festive season.
Liverpool’s XI vs. Crystal Palace
Due to several key senior players being absent from the squad, Klopp faces challenges in rotating his team during the busy festive period. The recent ACL tear suffered by Joel Matip adds to the list of absentees, and it may mark the end of his Liverpool career due to his contract expiring this summer. Mac Allister is also set to miss out due to a wound sustained in the previous matches against Fulham and Sheffield United.
Considering the quick turnaround following the midweek win, Klopp is expected to make further tweaks to his side without compromising on quality. The potential lineup for Saturday’s match could be as follows:
Kelleher; Alexander-Arnold, Konate, Van Dijk, Tsimikas; Endo, Szoboszlai, Jones; Salah, Nunez, Gakpo.
The eight-day gap between league fixtures allows Klopp to stick with certain players, knowing that he can make changes in the upcoming match against Union SG. Luis Diaz, who started the last two league games, may be rested in midweek, which would likely secure his place in the starting lineup against Crystal Palace. On the other hand, Ryan Gravenberch, who impressed as a substitute against the champions, could be in contention for a starting role this weekend.
This alternative lineup could look like:
Kelleher; Alexander-Arnold, Gomez, Van Dijk, Tsimikas; Endo, Szoboszlai, Gravenberch; Salah, Nunez, Diaz.
Despite the increasing number of injuries, Klopp still has various options and enough quality to extend Liverpool’s winning streak against Crystal Palace. Maintaining high confidence is crucial heading into the upcoming crucial matches against Manchester United and Arsenal.
Liverpool faces another significant test, but their goal remains the same: to secure a victory.