PREDICTING THE LIVERPOOL TEAM TO FACE NORWICH CITY

Liverpool turn their attentions to the Carabao Cup tomorrow night when they travel to Norfolk to take on Daniel Farke’s Norwich City. Of course the two sides met on opening day with the Reds coming away with a comfortable 3-0 victory. There will be plenty of changes as has been the case over the years in the Cups. We take a look at how Jurgen Klopp could line up.

Caoimhin Kelleher has been confirmed by assistant manager Pep Ljinders, to be starting for his first appearance of the season. With both first team right backs ruled out of the clash, it is a bit tricky guessing what Klopp will do in that position. James Milner filled in admirably against Palace but is expected to start in midfield to afford Fabinho and Henderson a breather.

Academy midfielder-cum-right back, Conor Bradley, will be involved, having been left out of the U23 game the other day along with Kaide Gordon. Will both start to give the Reds a youthful right flank? Another option is Joe Gomez, who made his long awaited return to competitive action in midweek against AC Milan.

At centre back, we predict Nathaniel Phillips to come in for his first appearance of the season, alongside new boy Ibrahima Konate. Ibou had a decent debut against Palace and should continue to get minutes here. Kostas Tsimikas should also get another run out at left back with Robbo settling for a place on the bench.

In midfield, James Milner should anchor, just as he did in the Premier League game between these two sides a few weeks ago. Alongside him will most likely be Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and Curtis Jones. With Thiago and Harvey Elliott out injured, Klopp is likely to take the cautious route with Henderson, Fabinho and Keita.

Up front, a front three of Kaide Gordon, Divock Origi and Takumi Minamino was seen a number of times in pre-season friendlies across the summer. It is one we expect to see from the start tomorrow night with Firmino still unavailable and the usual trio in need of a rest. 16 year old Gordon is highly rated and will relish the occasion as he makes his debut for the club.

Predicted team:

Kelleher, Gomez, Phillips, Konate, Tsimikas, Milner, Oxlade-Chamberlain, Jones, Gordon, Origi, Minamino.

Subs: Adrian, Matip, Koumetio, Beck, Keita, Morton, Mané.