Sparta vs. LFC: Salah’s Comeback & Up to 6 Players Rested in Lineup
Last week, Liverpool secured an impressive 5-1 victory over Sparta Prague in the Europa League last-16 first leg. This convincing win has given manager Jurgen Klopp the opportunity to rest some key players for the second leg at Anfield. However, despite the comfortable lead, Sparta will be eager to make a strong impression in their second-ever match at Anfield.
Team News
In his press conference, Klopp revealed that Mohamed Salah is ready to start, although it is unlikely that he will play the full 90 minutes. Additionally, Ryan Gravenberch has returned to training and could feature on the bench. Klopp hinted that he will select a lineup with the freshest legs.
Liverpool’s XI vs. Sparta Prague
Klopp intends to rest several key players, including Alexis Mac Allister, Wataru Endo, Harvey Elliott, and Luis Diaz. However, the team’s injury concerns limit his options for rotation. The center-back pairing that played against Manchester City could potentially start again due to the lack of alternatives. One player who is certain to start is Dominik Szoboszlai, who declared himself pain-free and ready to play.
Here is the predicted lineup for Liverpool:
Kelleher; Bradley, Quansah, Van Dijk, Tsimikas; McConnell, Szoboszlai, Clark; Salah, Koumas, Gakpo
Darwin Nunez, one of Liverpool’s strikers, will be eager to score goals in Thursday’s match, even if the tie is already secured. If Nunez starts, Koumas is likely to be on the bench but will probably come on as a substitute. Jayden Danns is unlikely to feature due to a concussion sustained in a previous match. Cody Gakpo, in need of a boost in form, should start as Klopp has limited options to choose from. There is also a possibility of a change in goal, with Adrian starting instead of Caoimhin Kelleher.
Here is an alternate lineup for Liverpool:
Adrian; Bradley, Quansah, Gomez, Tsimikas; McConnell, Szoboszlai, Clark; Salah, Gakpo, Nunez
Regardless of the lineup Klopp chooses, the team will be more than capable of securing a victory against Sparta. However, there is a risk of complacency among both the players and the crowd. It is crucial for the players to perform well and showcase their abilities as they compete for starting positions in upcoming matches after the international break.