Liverpool will host West Ham United at Anfield on Monday, and the Reds will hope to re-open a 22-point lead over Manchester City who occupy the second position in the Premier League table.
Jürgen Klopp’s side haven’t lost too often this season, and last Tuesday’s defeat against Atletico Madrid stung a bit as they were shut out by a dogged defence and couldn’t play their natural game
West Ham could very likely employ a similar approach as David Moyes will want his side to play deep and attempt to hit Liverpool on the break, but they will need to be at their best to do so.
Liverpool have dropped points just once in the league this season, and although Klopp has the option to rest a few players considering the squad depth, we are likely to see a full-strength side.
Liverpool Team News
Klopp will be without club captain Jordan Henderson who has a hamstring strain after picking up the injury against Atletico Madrid.
Xherdan Shaqiri continues his recovery, while Nathaniel Clyne is no closer after picking up a long-term injury before the season began.
Predicted Liverpool Lineup vs West Ham United
Defence
We could see one change at the back, with Joel Matip coming in for Joe Gomez. Matip hasn’t featured at all this month after his return from injury as his solitary appearance in January came in the FA Cup against Shrewsbury Town.
Matip could partner Virgil van Dijk at the heart of the Liverpool defence, with Andy Robertson and Trent Alexander-Arnold keeping their place at left-back and right-back.
Alisson Becker has been in top form of late, and he should line up in the Liverpool goal once again.
Midfield
With Henderson not available, we could see Klopp go with the midfield three of Fabinho, Gini Wijnaldum, and Alex Oxlade–Chamberlain.
Fabinho is expected to play as the deepest of the three, while Chamberlain should play further up the pitch as West Ham are likely to play a low-block, which will need breaking down.
Attack
Sadio Mane and Mohamed Salah were taken off during the second half against Atletico Madrid. The duo will hope to get back to scoring ways when they face West Ham. Roberto Firmino should complete the Liverpool lineup, and play as the centre-forward.
