Reds here in the Tavern are loving life on Merseyside at the moment, with an inspired run of form over the past two-months setting them up nicely for the New Year.
Of course, it wouldn’t be a Liverpool season without defensive woes and an inconsistent run of results. But in recent times Jurgen Klopp has managed to turn his side into a formidable force, with the attacking prowess of Mohamed Salah and Sadio Mane leading a charge that’s seen them impress both in Europe and domestically.
Although there have been some highlights so far this season, this hasn’t hidden the fact that they’ve been nothing short of abysmal in defence at times, with the forwards having to bail them out on numerous occasions.
In what has been a tiring festive period, Liverpool haven’t managed to go unscathed in the injury department with some of their key defender’s now sidelined for the time being.
This year in their Boxing Day clash, the Reds will host the Premier League’s lowest-ranked side Swansea City, in a fixture that many of the Kopites’ here in the Tavern believe should be an absolute drubbing.
Nevertheless, if Liverpool are to continue to strive for a Champions League spot then games like these are crucial in their progress, therefore if Jurgen Klopp fields this Liverpool XI, then Swansea City may as well not turn up.
GK: Simon Mignolet
Simon Mignolet has improved on some of the problems that led to his downfall last season, and now looks a more worthy keeper in an ambitious Reds side.
Although Klopp has enjoyed the pleasure out of switching between the Belgian and Loris Karius, the former Sunderland man has been Liverpool’s main Premier League goalkeeper.
RB: Joe Gomez
It’s already been a season to remember for the Englishman, after receiving his first England caps to becoming Liverpool’s first-choice right-back, it’s all happening for the youngster.
With the form he’s displayed this season, anyone will struggle to push him out of the starting line-up.
CB: Dejan Lovren
Dejan has received criticism at times this season for some defensive mistakes, but Klopp has continued to believe in the defender with some improvements made in recent weeks.
With Joel Matip still easing into things due to injury, the Croatian will be sure to take up his normal position in the heart of the defence.
CB: Ragnar Klavan
With Joel Matip stepping out of the side, Ragnar has had to be at this best to replace the Reds star defender, but to be fair to him he’s produced some dominant displays.
He’s earned the right of a starting place in the side with his recent run of form.
LB: Andy Robertson
With Alberto Moreno spending a sustained period out with injury, the former Hull City man has been given his first real shot in the red shirt, with a dangerous crossing ability causing opposition defenders problems.
Indeed, injuries are what will keep Andy Robertson in the side.
CM: Georginio Wijnaldum
‘Gini’ has been superb this season with his attacking intent, and his newly-developed tackling abilities balancing themselves out tremendously.
Definitely on his day a guaranteed starter in this Liverpool side.
CM: Jordan Henderson
The Liverpool captain has been on the receiving end of a heap of criticism this season, but due to his leadership qualities and defensive-minded game, there’s no doubt he’ll be the anchorman in the midfield.
He’s the captain for a reason, therefore Klopp will continue to trust in the Englishman, despite some of the criticism he’s received from some areas of the fans in our bar.
CM: Philippe Coutinho
The Brazilian wizard has been nothing short of special for the Reds this season, with long-range goals and unimaginable pieces of trickery becoming the norm.
Indeed, when he’s fit there’s no doubt that he’d be included in any footballing side.
RW: Mohamed Salah
One of the most selfish men in football, for taking all the awards that is!
The Egyptian winger has been in the form of his life with him already on his way to achieving the highest-scoring season in his footballing career.
Having won the African Player of the Year he’s in very high-spirits, so there’s always a guaranteed spot in the side for the in-form man.
ST: Roberto Firmino
He’s displayed signs of versatility with his performances so far this season, as he turns into more of a creator with assists being provided to their top-scorer Mohamed Salah.
Nevertheless, whether it’s scoring goals or creating, the Brazilian gets the call.
LW: Sadio Mane
The Senegalese forward has been in sublime form since returning from injury, with his pace and trickery making him out to be a defender’s nightmare.
Indeed, when he manages to stay fit the former Southampton man is one of Liverpool’s most prominent players. Truly a wonderful talent and someone able to change a game within a second.
Reds fans, thoughts?
