Reds fans here in the Tavern are hoping their side can continue on their merry ways, on the current run of 7 games unbeaten.
After early season defensive frailties, Jurgen Klopp and his side have settled down quite nicely in recent Premier League fixtures, as Christmas comes early for many Liverpool fans due to the run their side is currently on.
However, after letting 2 winning positions slip over the past week, defensive issues are still a lingering problem for Klopp’s side. But with the January transfer window approaching, the Kopites here in the Tavern will be hoping their team can hold out over the festive period.
Indeed, after the other night’s dominant 3-0 win away at Stoke on a cold and windy night, they now find themselves sitting in 5th place, just outside of the top 4 by the margin of 2 points.
Of course, with a tiring period set to take effect, punters here in the Tavern believe this is a season-defining month for the Reds, with a successful December followed by a few quality additions in January setting up the Merseyside club for the remainder of the season.
Next up is an way trip to the Amex, as a 3 o’clock kick-off sees Liverpool take on strugglers Brighton, who are heading into the game off the back of a draw against fellow relegation scrappers Crystal Palace.
Having taken everything into consideration, here’s a look at the starting XI that will bring the victory home to Anfield…
GK: Simon Mignolet
The Belgian shot-stopper has been in sublime form of late, having only conceded 2 goals in his last 4 Premier League games.
Jurgen will be looking for this man to continue his fine form between the sticks, in what should be a quiet day at the office for the Reds keeper.
RB: Joe Gomez
After taking on Neymar and co, the young England international has been in sublime form for both club and country, as he looks to develop what has already become his breakthrough season in the red shirt.
Klopp will be hoping that Gomez can display solidity once again, in a starting position he’s made his own.
CB: Joel Matip
Cameroon international Joel Matip has been a revelation at the heart of the defence this season, as the only player to play every game for the club, he’s beginning to make a name for himself in front of the Kop.
His strength and pace has caused for only a few opposition forwards to get the better of the centre-half, in what has been the form of his life.
CB: Dejan Lovren
After returning from injury in a clean-sheet performance Wednesday night, Lovren seems to have ironed out his mistakes in recent weeks after being the main point of criticism.
His leadership qualities and experience are something that every defence requires, as a player favored by the German gaffer, there’s no doubt he’ll take another starting position.
LB: Alberto Moreno
Pocket rocket Alberto Moreno has been a completely transformed player this season under Klopp, after eradicating the mistakes that left the team liable at times, he’s begun to utilize his pace and aggression to great effect both defensively and in attacking parts.
After his impressive start, there’s no doubt he’ll gain a starting spot, having kept new signing Andy Robertson out of the side.
CM: GeorginioWijnaldum
Indeed, the Dutch central-midfielder has caused quite the fuss at Anfield, with many of the Tavern regulars loving what he brings to the side.
His pace and attacking intent are two aspects of his armory that have caused utter destruction to opposition defences, with his jinking runs producing defensive calamities.
CM: Emre Can
With James Milner seeing much more of the game-time in recent weeks, Emre Can put on a clinic the other night with an incredible display of passing talents in the build up to a couple of the goals.
After Jordan Henderson’s blunder against Sevilla, perhaps a way into the side for the German has emerged.
CM: Philippe Coutinho
Of course, the highly-attracted Philippe Coutinho has come up with the goods on many occasions, whether its wonder-goals from outside the area or being involved in the creative side of things, he will certainly win you matches.
The Brazilian still remains a fan favorite here on Merseyside, with the Kopites always hoping to see him in the starting line-up every-time the team in announced.
RW: Mohamed Salah
Arguably the most formidable Premier League player at this moment in time, the Egyptian has been in the goal-scoring form of his life as he takes up the position as the League’s top scorer.
Having been brought off the bench to net two against Stoke mid-week, Klopp will be looking to grant him a well deserved starting place.
ST: Roberto Firmino
Having taken to the background with Salah’s run of goal-scoring form, the Brazilian has developed into more of a creator for the side, with 9 goals and 5 assists being provided over the course of the campaign.
Indeed, after being given a rest against Stoke, the forward will be looking to rediscover his touch in front of goal, after netting twice in their Champions League draw against Sevilla.
LW: Sadio Mane
The Senegalese international has continued his fine display of talents since returning from injury, with the opening goal last time out showing the manager exactly what was missed.
Klopp has witnessed the attacker come on leaps and bounds for the club, due to the guidance and confidence put into the abilities of the striker.
Reds fans, thoughts?
