The Liverpool fans in the Transfer Tavern can’t wait to see Jurgen Klopp lead their side for his first full season in charge.
The German manager joined the Reds last season, though it was already underway and saw the inconsistency that riddled the side under Brendan Rodgers continue for much of the campaign.
There were some positive signs, however.
The Premier League form may have tailed off but this was due to the thrilling run to the Europa League final that saw massive results against the likes of Klopp’s former team Borussia Dortmund, as well as arch rivals Manchester United.
Always likely to stand him in good stead.
This run sparked a huge amount of optimism around the club concerning what the former Mainz boss could do with a pre-season under his belt and now he’s getting that, similar performances are expected on a regular basis.
Our landlord thinks if Klopp gets his tactics right he could blow teams out of the way starting with Arsenal on the opening day, especially if they go with this 4-4-2.
Loris Karius
The German is set to be Liverpool’s new number one – ousting Simon Mignolet.
The Belgian has cost Liverpool at times with his flapping from crosses and whilst his shot-stopping is good, it probably won’t be enough to hold onto his starting berth.
Karius will need to step up straight away for this game but he certainly seems like a confident individual and will fancy himself to keep a clean sheet.
Nathaniel Clyne, Dejan Lovren, Joel Matip, Jonas Hector
Liverpool’s defence needs improve for this season coming. Even when the Reds came close to winning the title in 2013/14 their defence was shaky and that’s only gotten worse since.
Klopp will be hoping Joel Matip adds some confidence at the back with Dejan Lovren continuing to improve.
Meanwhile, Nathaniel Clyne will be expected to carry on from a good first debut season and Jonas Hector should be brought in to sort Liverpool’s left back issues.
Sadio Mane, Emre Can, Jordan Henderson, Philipe Coutinho
If Liverpool want to beat Arsenal they need to win the midfield battle. The likes of Mesut Ozil, Santi Cazorla and Alexis Sanchez can run rings around the best, so the Merseysiders need to be on top of their game.
Can and Henderson need to track everything the Gunners midfielders do whilst Sadio Mane will be expected to attack Arsenal’s weak left back position.
Finally, Philipe Coutinho may be given license to roam and if so, the brilliant Brazilian could be devastating.
Daniel Sturridge, Roberto Firmino
Firmino was arguably the Reds’ best signing last season and showed both Brazilian flair combined with good work ethic.
This combination proved impressive as he adapted quickly to Premier League life. As for Daniel Sturridge it’s a huge season.
When fit he’s one of the best finishers in the league and the Reds need him around all season to achieve anything with Klopp likely keeping a very close eye on him.
