WEST HAM VS LIVERPOOL: PREDICTED TEAM

Liverpool return to Premier League action tomorrow when they take on West Ham United at the London stadium. The Reds sealed qualification to the knockout stages of the Champions League in impressive fashion last time out and will come into this game full of confidence. There are a couple of selection dilemmas for Jürgen Klopp as we predict how he will line up.

You can find a preview for the game here:

https://made4liverpool.com/2021/11/05/west-ham-vs-liverpool-preview/

Alisson Becker is a constant in goal, with the Brazilian seemingly getting over the fitness issues that dogged him in the last couple of seasons. Ahead of him, we expect Joel Matip and Virgil Van Dijk to continue their partnership at the heart of defence. Konaté could get a look in over Matip though, if Klopp deems it necessary to have his recovery pace in the side to deal with the pacy Antonio.

Matip has been our best defender this season however and can feel hard done by if he’s left out. His driving runs up the pitch help open things up and serves as an extra attacking weapon. At left back, another dilemma presents itself. Kostas Tsimikas was excellent against Atleti in midweek and largely whenever he’s been called upon this season.

Robertson on the other hand, has had an inconsistent season. He’s been great at times, but poor at others. The gaffer remains very loyal to his players though and won’t drop Robertson lightly. He reminded everyone what he thinks about the Scotsman when he called him the best left back in the world in his pre-match press conference.

The gauntlet has been well and truly laid down, and you’d expect Robbo to respond with a performance. That’s what competition for places in a squad does, it raises everyone’s level. In midfield, Fabinho and Henderson are certain starters. The spot to the left of Fabinho is open to two options; Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain or Thiago Alcantara.

Ox was also excellent against Atletico Madrid, as he drew praise from his manager. The player himself has mentioned how he needs a run of games to hit the rhythm he requires in his game. He’s had just that, playing 70+ minutes in each of the last three fixtures. His pace and drive could be useful against West Ham’s solid midfield base of Soucek and Rice.

Thiago meanwhile, has just returned from a six week layoff and eased himself back into the fray with a half hour cameo against Diego Simeone’s men. Another cameo here is likely. Beyond him, young Tyler Morton could make the bench again as injuries to several members of the midfield has opened up a spot in the matchday squad.

Upfront, Roberto Firmino has been ruled out for over a month with another hamstring injury. That leaves the manager with a straightforward front three selection. Diogo Jota will line up through the middle and look to cause Zouma and Ogbonna problems, whilst Mohamed Salah will take up his usual right wing position and have Aaron Creswell to contend with.

Sadio Mané on the left wing will likely come up against impressive youngster Ben Johnson, who has stood in really well during Coufal’s abscence. West Ham have quality all over the pitch and with a raucous crowd cheering them on, will offer more than a thorough test of Liverpool’s title credentials. A win for the Hammers will take them above their hosts into third, level on points with City.

A win for the Reds will see them move back into second place, just a point behind Chelsea who were held by Burnley today. The last international break of the year follows immediately after this fixture so it is vital to get a win to keep the feel-good vibes going around the club during the next fortnight.

Predicted team:

Alisson, Alexander-Arnold, Matip, Van Dijk, Robertson, Fabinho, Henderson, Oxlade-Chamberlain, Salah, Jota, Mané.

Subs: Kelleher, Williams, Konaté, Phillips, Tsimikas, Morton, Thiago, Minamino, Origi.