Liverpool’s remarkable performance amidst an injury crisis is poised to persist as they head to Nottingham Forest for a Premier League encounter on Saturday.
Jurgen Klopp faces the absence of several regular starters and depth options, including Mohamed Salah, Dominik Szoboszlai, Darwin Nunez, and others.
While some players might return to the bench, the majority will remain sidelined. This scenario places pressure on youngsters as Liverpool maintains a one-point lead over Manchester City at the Premier League summit.
The anticipated Liverpool lineup against Nottingham Forest is as follows:
Goalkeeper:
Caoimhin Kelleher – Demonstrating his goalkeeping prowess, Kelleher has proven his capability as a potential first-choice keeper, albeit at a slightly lower-tier club.
Defenders:
Conor Bradley (RB) – Bradley’s emergence has softened the blow of Trent Alexander-Arnold’s absence, showcasing his talent even before the injury crisis escalated.
Ibrahima Konate (CB) – With Liverpool’s defensive strength intact, Konate must maintain his fitness, especially with competition from emerging talents like Jarell Quansah.
Virgil van Dijk (CB) – A pivotal leader, Van Dijk’s recent display against Chelsea underscored his importance, particularly during a period heavily reliant on young players.
Andy Robertson (LB) – Robertson’s return to form is crucial for Liverpool’s title aspirations, especially amid doubts over Kostas Tsimikas’s reliability.
Midfielders:
Harvey Elliott (CM) – Despite his young age, Elliott’s impact has been significant, highlighting his maturity and talent in the midfield.
Joe Gomez (CM) – Gomez’s versatility is valuable, and his shift to defensive midfield adds depth and options for Klopp’s side.
Alexis Mac Allister (CM) – Fit and ready, Mac Allister offers stability in midfield amidst injury woes, carving out a significant role for himself.
Forwards:
Cody Gakpo (RW) – While facing criticism, Gakpo’s progression is evident, and his recent goal against Luton signals a step in the right direction.
Jayden Danns (ST) – With two goals already, Danns, at just 18, continues to impress and is expected to lead the line in Nunez’s absence.
Luis Diaz (LW) – Diaz’s rested state after the midweek fixture bodes well for Liverpool, given his tireless running and significant contribution to the team’s attacking prowess.
