Liverpool’s League Cup journey continues as they face AFC Bournemouth in the fourth round.
Manager Jurgen Klopp is expected to make significant changes to the starting lineup, emphasizing the club’s ongoing Europa League commitments.
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Liverpool’s League Cup Preparations
Defensive Reconfiguration
Left-Back Dilemma
Luke Chambers is poised for a return at left-back, managing Kostas Tsimikas’ workload following Andy Robertson’s injury. Calum Scanlon is a viable alternative.
Center-Back Pairing
Joel Matip is likely to take center stage, potentially alongside Jarell Quansah if Van Dijk and Konate are rested.
Captaincy Shift
Joe Gomez is set to assume the captain’s armband as the club’s longest-serving player, featuring at right-back while Trent Alexander-Arnold takes a break. Caoimhin Kelleher steps in for Alisson Becker in goal.
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Midfield Reshuffle
Curtis Jones’ Return
Curtis Jones is back in the starting lineup, gaining valuable minutes after a three-match Premier League suspension.
Wataru Endo as Holding Midfielder
Wataru Endo is expected to resume his role as the holding midfielder.
Engine Room Options
Ryan Gravenberch, who was withdrawn early against Nottingham Forest, may retain his position. Harvey Elliott is an alternative, potentially joining the front three. Academy graduate James McConnell could also make his Liverpool debut.
Injury Considerations
Thiago Alcantara, Stefan Bajcetic, and Bobby Clark: The availability of these players depends on their recovery from injuries, with Pep Lijnders expected to provide an update in the pre-match press conference.
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Attacking Setup
Cody Gakpo’s Return
Cody Gakpo is set to make a starting appearance, marking his return from a knee injury sustained against Tottenham Hotspur.
Right-Wing Slot
Harvey Elliott is likely to take the right-wing position if Ben Doak remains sidelined.
Completing the Attacking Trio
Diogo Jota, who was subbed out early against Forest, could complete the attacking trio.
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Luis Diaz’s Situation
Uncertain Availability
Luis Diaz, who missed the last game due to a family emergency in Colombia, may or may not be available, depending on the ongoing situation involving his parents.
Liverpool’s League Cup campaign against AFC Bournemouth presents an opportunity for squad rotation, ensuring that key players are rested and young talents gain valuable experience.
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Possible Liverpool Starting XI (4-3-3)
Kelleher; Gomez, Matip, Quansah, Chambers; Gravenberch, Endo, Jones; Elliott, Gakpo, Jota.
The possible lineup, while still subject to injury updates and player availability, showcases the club’s depth and adaptability.
Klopp’s management of the squad’s resources will play a pivotal role in their cup aspirations this season.
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