With 36 points from 30 games, Javi Gracia’s Watford are in a comfortable position in the league table but will be desperate to finish the season on a high. They were put to the sword at Emirates as Arsenal handed them a 3-0 loss last weekend but the Hornets will look to bounce back this weekend when they travel to Anfield.
The Reds, fresh from a loss to Manchester United, will settle for nothing less than three points but like the first game of the season reminded us, they are vulnerable and it is within Watford’s reach to get something from this tie.
Liverpool have a fully fit squad to choose from and Klopp is expected to name a strong lineup but Watford have a decent squad and will surely push the hosts till the end. Here is the predicted lineup the visitors might field for this tie:
Team News
The Hornets have more players injured than any other side in the Premier League at the moment. The likes of Younes Kaboul, Tom Cleverly, Christian Kabasele, Jerome Sinclair, Gerard Deulofeu and Nathaniel Chalobah are all ruled out for this game. However, they are expected to welcome back Heurelho Gomes and Craig Cathcart, who have missed quite a few games recently.
Expected lineup (4-2-3-1)
Defence
With Gomes back in the first team, Orestis Karnezis might be replaced in the first team by the Brazilian for this trip to Anfield. Sebastian Prodl and Adrian Mariappa were not at their best against the Gunners and will once again be tested at the back by the fluid Liverpool front three.
Daryl Janmaat did not last the whole game at Emirates but should be back in his right-back role while Jose Holebas is expected to keep his place at left-back for this tie.
Midfield
Watford have one of the most dynamic midfield duos in the Premier League at the moment. Gracia should use both Etienne Capoue and Abdoulaye Doucoure as a pair, to try and frustrate Liverpool at the middle of the park.
Attack
Richarlison has been one of the most exciting players for Watford this season and the away side will look at him on the counter. Troy Deeney is the best option to lead the attack and should keep his place for this tie.
Roberto Pereyra did a decent job on the flank against Arsenal and could retain his place while Kiko Femenia might be replaced by Andre Carrillo, to add some creativity to the attack.
Here is how they might line up:
