Liverpool suffered a shock loss to Brighton and Hove Albion in the Premier League and they could be staring at yet another defeat as they take on Man City this weekend.
The Reds have remarkably not lost back-to-back home league matches without scoring for the first time since 2012 but despite their great start to the 2020-21 season, now with each passing game, it looks like their title defence could be fading away.
Jurgen Klopp has a lot of injuries to deal with going into this key game and the defensive line will once again be the major cause of concern for the German. But, apart from the defenders, Klopp now also has to worry about his forward players since Liverpool haven’t lost three home league matches in a row without scoring in the last 100 years.
The only saving grace for Liverpool right now is their home form against Man City as they have not suffered a defeat to the Etihad outfit since 2013.
Liverpool team news vs Manchester City:
Alisson Becker missed the 1-0 loss to Brighton but the Brazilian is likely to be back in front of goal against Manchester City on Sunday.
Fabinho will go through a late fitness test but the Brazilian should be fit enough to start meaning he will slot straight back into central defence. Ozan Kabak has gotten an international clearance meaning he is available to play against City.
Now, it will be interesting to see if Jurgen Klopp opts to use Kabak alongside Fabinho or does Henderson remain in central defence.
Thiago has not been at the top of his game ever since he’s returned from injury but the midfielder is a guaranteed starter for Liverpool on Sunday. Wijnaldum will also keep his place in the starting line-up.
Oxlade-Chamberlain could be the third midfielder to play against City or the manager could also use youngster Curtis Jones.
Naby Keita and Diogo Jota are still recovering from injuries and are ruled out for Sunday’s game.
Sadio Mane did train with the first-team squad on Friday but he will go through a late fitness test to see if he is fit enough to play against Man City or not.
Firmino has been really underwhelming over the course of this season but since it’s City, the Liverpool manager is not likely to gamble with Origi up front. Mo Salah starts on the right-wing.
Stats via Whoscored.com.
