Sophia
Liverpool returns to Premier League action this weekend, holding a crucial five-point lead at the top of the table. The Reds are set to visit Selhurst Park for a challenging encounter against Crystal Palace, a team that previously handed them a defeat in the Community Shield earlier this season.
Despite their impressive run of seven consecutive victories across all competitions, manager Arne Slot acknowledges that performance levels still need improvement. The Reds have often relied on a significant element of luck during their winning streak, a factor Crystal Palace will be keen to exploit should their fortune wane. This match offers Liverpool a chance to avenge their Community Shield loss, where they twice surrendered leads before ultimately losing on penalties.
Historically, Liverpool boasts an excellent record against Palace, winning ten of their last eleven trips to Selhurst Park. This statistic will undoubtedly instill confidence as they seek redemption in the capital.
Liverpool’s Predicted Lineup (4-2-3-1)
Here’s how Liverpool could line up at Selhurst Park, with several key changes expected from their midweek Carabao Cup fixture:
Goalkeeper: Alisson
Brazilian shot-stopper Alisson, who was rested during the midweek Carabao Cup victory over Southampton, will return to the starting XI. His freshness will be crucial, as Liverpool’s defensive record suggests he will likely face numerous tests against Palace’s attack.
Right-Back: Conor Bradley
With Jeremie Frimpong playing the full 90 minutes against Southampton, Conor Bradley is expected to reclaim his spot at right-back. The Northern Ireland international impressed in his first Premier League start against Everton last weekend, effectively nullifying the threat of Jack Grealish.
Centre-Backs: Ibrahima Konaté & Virgil van Dijk
The long-term ACL injury to Giovanni Leoni places increased pressure on Liverpool’s remaining centre-backs. Ibrahima Konaté, despite his fitness concerns, is expected to start alongside captain Virgil van Dijk. Van Dijk has been a pillar of strength in Liverpool’s defense this season, consistently maintaining his high standards even amidst the team’s occasional vulnerabilities.
Left-Back: Milos Kerkez
Milos Kerkez, who has had a challenging start to his Anfield career, delivered an impressive performance in the Merseyside derby. He will be tasked with matching the overlapping runs of Daniel Muñoz and will be hoping Ismaïla Sarr remains sidelined through injury.
Defensive Midfielders: Ryan Gravenberch & Alexis Mac Allister
Ryan Gravenberch, fresh off a masterful display against Everton where he scored and assisted, will be a key figure in midfield. His four goal contributions this season already match his tally for the entirety of the last campaign. Alexis Mac Allister, whose minutes have been carefully managed due to injury concerns, benefited from an empty midweek and is expected to start, providing crucial control in the engine room.
Attacking Midfielder: Florian Wirtz
Florian Wirtz, who was surprisingly benched for the Merseyside derby and absent midweek, will be eager to make an impact. Following his £116 million move, he’s had a subdued start to his Liverpool career and will be desperate to open his goal-scoring account at Selhurst Park.
Right Wing: Mohamed Salah
Mohamed Salah, while perhaps not reaching last season’s electrifying heights, has still been highly effective with three goals and three assists in all competitions. His impressive record against Palace, with 14 goal contributions in 17 meetings, makes him a constant threat.
Striker: Alexander Isak
Hugo Ekitiké’s suspension following an “idiotic red card” against Southampton paves the way for Alexander Isak to lead the line. Isak, who opened his Liverpool account against the Saints, is expected to feature for 60-70 minutes, as hinted by Arne Slot.
Left Wing: Cody Gakpo
Despite increased competition from Federico Chiesa and newly professional Rio Ngumoha, Cody Gakpo has enough credit in the bank to retain his starting spot on the left wing. His consistent performances have cemented his position as Slot’s preferred choice.
Liverpool will undoubtedly make sweeping changes from their midweek fixture, aiming to field their strongest possible side to secure three vital points and maintain their lead at the top of the Premier League table.
