Liverpool vs Crystal Palace Preview : Based on Thursday’s performance, Jurgen Klopp eager for significant changes in starting lineup…

Based on Thursday’s performance, many fans are eager for significant changes in Klopp’s starting lineup. Let’s now analyze who we believe will be included in Klopp’s starting XI for Sunday.

Liverpool, who narrowly fell behind Arsenal on goal difference last weekend, will strive to enhance their pursuit of the Premier League title on Sunday as they host Crystal Palace at Anfield.

Crystal Palace arrives amidst a five-match winless streak, while Liverpool’s two-point lead at the top of the table was relinquished after a 2-2 draw against Manchester United and a 3-0 home loss to Atalanta in the Europa League quarter-final first leg. Here, Sports Mole provides the latest team news for both clubs.

Out: Joel Matip (knee), Ben Doak (knee), Thiago Alcantara (muscle)

Doubtful: Alisson Becker (thigh)

Sports Mole’s predicted XI: Kelleher; Alexander-Arnold, Konate, Van Dijk, Robertson; Mac Allister, Endo, Szoboszlai; Salah, Nunez, Diaz.

CRYSTAL PALACE

Out: Sam Johnstone (arm), Chris Richards (knee), Rob Holding (ankle), Marc Guehi (knee), Cheick Doucoure (Achilles), Matheus Franca (muscle)

Doubtful: Jesurun Rak-Sakyi (thigh)

Sports Mole’s predicted XI: Henderson; Ward, Andersen, Lerma; Munoz, Wharton, Hughes, Mitchell; Olise, Mateta, Eze

Liverpool’s defensive struggles have been evident in their recent run of games, as they have failed to keep a clean sheet in their last eight matches across all competitions. However, for this upcoming game, Caoimhin Kelleher will continue to be the goalkeeper while Alisson Becker recovers from his injury.

In defense, Virgil Van Dijk will be a guaranteed starter, and I anticipate Jarell Quansah partnering him at the back. Ibou Konate, who played the full 90 minutes on Thursday, will likely be moved to the bench.

Andy Robertson, who has been in impressive form since his return from injury, will definitely start at left-back. The underwhelming performances of Kostas Tsimikas and Joe Gomez in the previous match make it an easier decision for Klopp. On the opposite side, Conor Bradley is expected to start.

Verdict: Kelleher, Bradley, Quansah, Van Dijk, Tsimikas

MAJOR DECISIONS IN THE MIDFIELD

Selecting the starting three midfielders is a challenging task following the disappointing performance in the previous match. Wataru Endo is expected to maintain his position at the base of the midfield, while Alexis Mac Allister will likely occupy one of the advanced roles.

The final midfield spot is a toss-up between Harvey Elliott, Curtis Jones, and Dominik Szoboszlai. Jones may not be fully fit for a starting role yet, as Thursday’s game seemed premature for him. I predict that Szoboszlai will be chosen for the upcoming match against Atalanta, allowing him to rest for this one.

Consequently, Elliott will have the opportunity to showcase his skills in the midfield trio instead of being pushed out wide. The young player previously scored a crucial late goal in a match against Crystal Palace, so hopefully, he can make a similar impact this Sunday.

Analysis: Endo, Mac Allister, Elliott

Considering the recent performances of Liverpool, many fans are hoping for Diogo Jota’s return to the starting lineup. However, it is unlikely that he will be included in the starting eleven for Sunday’s match. Instead, Darwin Nunez will retain his position in the central role of the front three.

Luis Diaz and Mohamed Salah are expected to make their way back into the starting lineup, which means Cody Gakpo will have to settle for a place on the bench, despite his impressive performance on Thursday. Nevertheless, I wouldn’t completely dismiss the idea of giving the Dutchman a chance to start.

In conclusion, the verdict for the starting lineup is Salah, Nunez, Diaz. The confirmed starting XI consists of Kelleher, Bradley, Quansah, Van Dijk (C), Robertson, Endo, Mac Allister, Elliott, Salah, Nunez, Diaz. On the bench, we have Adrian, Konate, Gomez, Tsimikas, Jones, Gravenberch, Szoboszlai, Gakpo, and Jota.