After an exceptional second half comeback against Stoke City, Liverpool face another tough away test as they travel to the Hawthorns on Sunday. West Bromwich Albion are flying high in the league this season and are on course to finish the current campaign with a record points tally. Tony Pulis will be keen to stop Liverpool’s winning momentum and cause them a worry in their quest to reach the top four.
This is the kind of tricky fixture which Liverpool must win to have any easy path towards Champions League football next season. A good news for Liverpool is that West Brom haven’t beaten the Reds since 2013 and have gone seven games without a win. But the biggest issue for Jürgen Klopp’s men will be the venue of the game as Liverpool have not tasted victory at the Hawthorns since October 2011. On that note, let’s take a look the predicted Liverpool lineup against a strong West Bromwich Albion team.
Goalkeeper
Simon Mignolet was the real star of the match against Stoke as he produced two world class saves at crucial junctures to keep Liverpool in the hunt for a comeback. With confidence and form on his side, the Belgian will be the man between the posts for the Reds.
Defence
After trying out a new formation against the Potters, Liverpool are expected to go back to their favoured 4-3-3 formation. After playing in midfield the other week, James Milner will return to his left back position while Nathaniel Clyne will go back to his favoured right back spot. Dejan Lovren and Joel Matip have looked good as a pair at times and will start as the central defenders against a brilliant Baggies attacking unit.
Midfield
In Jordan Henderson’s absence, Lucas Leiva has played well in the holding midfield position and the Brazilian will be needed at his best to break West Brom’s threatening attacks. Emre Can has been playing like a man with a purpose and will be looking to continue his good run. Georginio Wijnaldum will take up the remaining midfielder’s position as the Dutchman has been Liverpool’s go-to guy this season.
Attack
After coming on as substitutes against the Potters, the Brazilian duo of Philippe Coutinho and Roberto Firmino changed the complexion of the game. Both of them will start on Sunday as Ben Woodburn will have to be satisfied with a place on the bench. Divock Origi will play as the striker and the Belgian will be looking to score his third league goal in four appearances. Daniel Sturridge is expected to play the role of super sub for the Reds.
