Liverpool boss Arne Slot could be ready to shake things up when his side face Crystal Palace in the Carabao Cup fourth round at Anfield.
After a rough few weeks, the Reds need more than just a win — they need a lift, and Slot reportedly has a few tricks up his sleeve to make it happen.
The Reds have lost five of their last six matches across all competitions, a run that has left fans scratching their heads.
Their 3-2 defeat to Brentford last weekend added more fuel to the fire, while Palace themselves are in a slump, losing three of their last four. Wednesday’s clash could therefore be less about form and more about fight.
Liverpool have already suffered at Palace’s hands this season — a 2-1 loss at Selhurst Park started the Reds’ downward spiral in September.
Since then, both teams have struggled to find consistency. But in knockout football, anything can happen — especially when Slot is known for pulling the odd tactical rabbit out of his hat.
A few surprises in store for Liverpool vs Crystal Palace?
With Alisson Becker, Jeremie Frimpong, and Giovanni Leoni ruled out through injury, Slot may be forced to get creative. Ryan Gravenberch and Alexander Isak are still doubtful, while Curtis Jones faces a late fitness test after coming off against Brentford.
In the matchday program, Slot admitted:
“At the time of writing these notes I have not made a final decision on the squad that we will use for this game – there is a need to train and to check on availability – but whichever players we use have to be ready to face a team like Palace.”
That uncertainty hints at a few potential surprises in the starting XI. Academy talent Nyoni could get the nod in midfield, while Federico Chiesa and Florian Wirtz are expected to feature.
Newcastle loanee Hugo Ekitike may lead the line, as the Reds look for fresh energy and a spark of inspiration up front.
Liverpool fans are hoping that Anfield’s magic can do its part too — after all, cup nights under the lights have a way of turning stories around.
And if Slot really does make a few bold calls, it might just be the jolt the Reds need to get their season back on track.
Predicted Liverpool XI: Woodman; Bradley, Gomez, Endo, Robertson; Nyoni, Mac Allister; Chiesa, Wirtz, Ngumoha; Ekitike