The Reds play their first Champions League game at Anfield since last years’ round of 16 defeat against Atletico Madrid later tonight.
They welcome Danish champions FC Midtjylland to L4 as they look to make it two out of two in Europe after victory in Amsterdam last week.
This is the first-ever meeting between the two sides, meaning a new challenge is presented to Jurgen Klopp which is relatively unknown.
Midtjylland were only formed in 1999 and are making their debut in the Champions League this season.
Currently managed by Brian Priske, Ulvene (The Wolves) have won the Danish title three times in the last six seasons. They also saw triumph in the Danish cup two seasons ago.
Though they’re unknown to many Liverpool fans at the moment, Manchester United fans are familiar with FCM. United travelled to the MCH arena in 15/16 and lost 2-1.
Louis Van Gaal overcame the deficit in the second leg, although they were knocked out by Jurgen Klopp’s Liverpool in the next round.
You can’t help but feel sorry for the fans of Midtjylland. Tonight’s occasion, as likely as it is to end up in defeat, would’ve been a special night for those lucky enough to travel.
Although victory is expected in this evening’s game, Liverpool must remain professional and get the job done in a manner befitting of the English champions.
A reds victory, coupled with Atalanta winning in Lombardy would see both sides six clear at the top of Group D.
TEAM NEWS
Thiago Alcantara is nearing his return to the side after resuming training yesterday. Tonight’s game comes too early for him though.
He’s more likely to feature against West Ham at the weekend.
The same can be said for Joel Matip and Naby Keita. The duo will not be available for tonight but, like Thiago, could be ready for the Hammer’s trip to Anfield.
It goes without saying that Virgil van Dijk is unavailable, as are Kostas Tsimikas and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain.
The good news is the Reds picked up no new injury concerns in Saturday’s victory over Sheffield United.
Priske may be without his first-choice goalkeeper in Jesper Hansen. He was forced off in their 3-2 win over Brondby at the weekend.
Centre back Kristian Dirks Riis has been ruled out of tonight’s game. Forward Junior Brumado may also make the trip to Anfield, though.
PREDICTED LINEUP
Alisson made his return at the weekend and he obviously starts when match fit.
This may be a game where Klopp has the opportunity to rotate. Neco Williams may come in at right-back and Andy Robertson will start opposite him.
Fabinho will partner Rhys Williams at the heart of the defence.
There’ll be one change to the midfield that started in Amsterdam with Jordan Henderson coming in for James Milner.
Captain Jordan Henderson will slot into the deep lying pivot role, with Curtis Jones and Gini Wijnaldum operating ahead of the skipper.
The Reds will start tonight’s game with the front three that ended the victory at Ajax.
The trio of Diogo Jota retains his place in the side with Xherdan Shaqiri and Takumi Minamino coming in to complete the front three.
WHAT TO EXPECT
A win.
Without beating around the bush, Liverpool should win this game regardless of what side they field.
With at least one of the other two teams who’ll challenge us for qualification guaranteed to drop points, it’s vital that the Reds stamp their authority on this group early on.
The performance is just as important as the result tonight.
A good performance from the more fringe players will give fans further evidence to trust the squad depth they’ve now got.
Of course, a convincing win will do that just the same.
I’m going for a 5-0 Liverpool victory. The Reds should be keeping a clean sheet and their attacking options should have far too much for Midtjylland’s defence.
