The Liverpool fans in the Football Transfer Tavern are expecting a big win against Sunderland this weekend…
Sunderland currently sit in the relegation zone in the Premier League, and in truth – their season has looked doomed from the outset.
After failing to appropriately reinforce over the summer, David Moyes has a lot of work to do – and the Reds could look to take advantage over the weekend.
Klopp’s side, conversely, have looked very good – and look set to challenge for the Premier League title this season. In fact, a few of the Liverpool fans in the Football Transfer Tavern are calling for this weekend’s Sunderland clash to be an opportunity to experiment for Jurgen Klopp.
A few teams in the Premier League have started utilising a formation with 3 defenders, and with the likes of Sadio Mane leaving the club in the new year to attend the African Cup of Nations – Klopp needs to have all his bases covered.
With that said, this is the experimental Liverpool XI Klopp could field against Sunderland..
GK – Loris Karius
Loris Karius is Liverpool’s first-choice goalkeeper, and a formation switch is unlikely to change that.
He has looked shaky in parts but has all the makings of a top goalkeeper.
CB – Joel Matip
Joel Matip has been a revelation at Liverpool since his arrival, and the added reinforcement of playing alongside 2 other central defenders will likely only help him further.
Expect a great performance.
CB – Dejan Lovren
Dejan Lovren has rediscovered his form this season – and has impressed under Jurgen Klopp.
He still isn’t completely reliable, though, and he will be aided significantly by the extra defenders around him.
CB – Ragnar Klavan
Ragnar Klavan is the experienced hand in this defence, and whilst he may not have much experience of playing in this role – he should be able to adapt well.
He has been used sparingly thus far, but this formation switch could allow him further opportunity.
LWB – James Milner
James Milner has adapted to life as a left-back like a duck to water – and a switch further up the field will likely only help him further.
Much closer to his more familiar left-wing role – Milner will have no worries about his performances.
CM – Georginio Wijnaldum
Georginio Wijnaldum has made a decent if slightly underwhelming start to life at Anfield, but he looks like he is beginning to find his feet in a Liverpool shirt.
A 3-man midfield could serve to improve his performances.
CM – Philippe Coutinho
Philippe Coutinho is often given a free role, but in this side, he will need to work hard both defensively and offensively.
He is the magician of this team, and everything will likely run through him.
Crucial player, no matter the formation.
CM – Jordan Henderson
Liverpool’s captain and, alongside Coutinho, undoubtedly one of the most important players in this side.
He will need to dictate the game from deep, whilst not forgetting about his defensive duties.
RWB – Nathaniel Clyne
Nathaniel Clyne is effective going forward, so a the right wing-back role should suit him perfectly.
He has been excellent since his arrival, so you would expect his fine form to continue going forward.
ST – Daniel Sturridge
Daniel Sturridge hasn’t had much of a chance yet this season, but this formation switch should allow him the opportunity to get a game.
His fall has been disappointing, as he is undoubtedly one of the finest players in the Premier League – and you can expect him to grab a few goals if he’s reinstated.
ST – Roberto Firmino
Roberto Firmino has been the striker of choice for Klopp so far this season, and you wouldn’t expect that to change.
He has added goals to his game, and alongside Sturridge – he could be unstoppable.
