Liverpool will want to assure themselves of a top-two finish in Europa League Group E with a victory over Toulouse in France on Thursday evening.
The Reds smashed the French side 5-1 during their showdown at Anfield two weeks ago to continue their blistering start to the Europa League campaign. Before the game against Toulouse, they had registered wins over LASK and Union SG.
However, Jurgen Klopp’s side dropped points in the title race on Sunday following a 1-1 draw with newbies Luton Town. Klopp will want his team to perform better and get the job done in France.
Liverpool Team News
Curtis Jones was unavailable for the meeting with Luton due to a “minor fitness issue”, but there is hope that he will be able to play a part against Toulouse. Jurgen Klopp has acknowledged that Stefan Bajcetic's recovery from a calf issue is still unknown, and Thiago Alcantara (hip) is unlikely to return to action before the beginning of the New Year.
Predicted Liverpool lineup vs Toulouse (4-3-3)
Goalkeeper
Caoimhin Kelleher is in line for a recall, with the Northern Irishman replacing Alisson between the sticks for Liverpool against Toulouse.
Defence
Joel Matip will partner Ibrahima Konate at the center of Liverpool's defense, as Klopp will continue to make changes to the starting lineup.
Kostas Tsimikas came off the bench in the 1-1 draw with Luton but could start here at left-back, while Joe Gomez hopes to replace Trent Alexander-Arnold at right-back in the Liverpool lineup.
The Liverpool backline must stay tight and focused throughout the game to earn a clean sheet in France.
Midfield
Wataru Endo had a spectacular outing against Toulouse in the reverse fixture and deserves a recall to the starting XI. The Japanese international could join Ryan Gravenberch and Curtis Jones in the Reds’ engine room, with the latter expected to shake off a minor problem.
football formations
The Liverpool starting lineup should be composed of Endo, Jones, and Gravenberch to hold down the middle of the park and allow the forwards to attack the Toulouse defense with impunity.
Attack
Harvey Elliot is expected to start on the right flank ahead of Mohamed Salah, and the youngster has the tools to cause Toulouse serious issues. With Diogo Jota set to make his Liverpool debut on the left wing following his substitution in the 66th minute of the team's 1-1 draw with Luton, Cody Gakpo may start through the middle as a No. 9.
Luis Diaz, who scored a stoppage-time equalizer at Luton, could come off the bench again if he is in the right frame of mind. Meanwhile, talented teenager Ben Doak could also get some minutes against Toulouse.
blogpay
Total Comments: 0