The Reds are making a return to the Europa League after a long absence since 2016, and manager Jurgen Klopp has stated that he won’t be experimenting with his starting lineup for Liverpool vs LASK.
They are set to face LASK, an Austrian team currently ranked third in their division.
While it was expected that Liverpool would utilize their squad depth in the Europa League, Klopp intends to field a strong lineup rather than try out experimental combinations.
This is crucial as they also have a Premier League match against West Ham approaching.
Two Potential lineups Klopp could play – LASK vs Liverpool
Some players who haven’t seen much game time this year, such as Caoimhin Kelleher, Kostas Tsimikas, and Wataru Endo, may get opportunities in this competition.
Additionally, Ryan Gravenberch could be in line for his first start for the club. Luis Diaz and Darwin Nunez, along with young talent Ben Doak, provide experience and goal-scoring potential.
One potential lineup could feature Kelleher in goal, Gomez at right-back, Virgil van Dijk returning from suspension, with Quansah alongside him, Endo as the No. 6 alongside Harvey Elliott and Gravenberch in midfield, and Doak making his first start of the season.
Predicted XI I: Kelleher; Gomez, Quansah, Van Dijk, Tsimikas; Endo, Elliott, Gravenberch; Doak, Diaz, Nunez
This would entail nine changes from their previous match against Wolves.
Alternatively, Klopp might opt for a more experienced lineup, including Joel Matip and Andy Robertson in defense alongside Van Dijk, Gomez, and Alisson.
With Quansah and Ibrahima Konate as backup options, Klopp has the flexibility to distribute playing time in defense.
Despite the busy schedule, players like Dominik Szoboszlai, Alexis Mac Allister, and Mohamed Salah could be options from the bench.
Predicted XI II: Alisson; Gomez, Matip, Van Dijk, Robertson; Endo, Elliott, Gravenberch; Doak, Diaz, Nunez
In conclusion, Liverpool have the depth and quality to rotate their squad while aiming for their first three points in the Europa League.
Klopp’s final lineup decisions will be eagerly awaited, but there’s potential for excitement if young talents like Doak and Gravenberch get the chance to shine.
The match kicks off at an earlier time of 5.45 pm BST.