Liverpool need to go out all guns blazing against Barcelona when the Spaniards welcome the English side to Camp Nou on Wednesday for the Champions League semi-final.
With the opportunity to play in their second Champions League final in as many years, Liverpool cannot play a passive game against Barcelona and must go all out to win.
Jurgen Klopp has brought balance to Liverpool’s play, enabling his side to challenge for both England and Europe’s biggest trophies.
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Liverpool will fancy their chances against Barcelona and if they can keep the magical Lionel Messi quiet for 180 minutes, their chances of securing an aggregate win will be heightened.
In order to keep a clean sheet in Spain, Joel Matip must return to the starting XI in place of Lovren, who started against Huddersfield on Friday.
Similarly, Fabinho needs to start ahead of Gini Wijnaldum as the Dutchman is known for going missing in big away games and Klopp cannot afford for his side to have any passengers.
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The Brazilian is Liverpool’s strongest midfielder in defensive areas and is also a very proactive passer. To beat Barcelona’s press, the Reds will need to move the ball quickly and intelligently.
For this reason, both Jordan Henderson and Naby Keita need to start in more advanced roles but it wouldn’t be surprising to see James Milner start ahead of the Guinean.
The Englishman has long since been Klopp’s go-to man in European cup games.
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Up front, Roberto Firmino needs to start even if he’s only 90% fit. He holds the key to Liverpool’s attacking play and if he’s missing, the Reds will lack energy and clever movement in behind the Barcelona back line.
Klopp’s side have what it takes to win the Champions League this season but they will need to be switched on and ready to take their chances in front of goal.
Starting XI to face Barcelona: Alisson, Trent, Matip, van Dijk, Robertson, Fabinho, Milner, Henderson, Mane, Firmino, Salah.