This weekend marks the release of the latest episode of Jürgen Klopp Hates the Domestic Cups, where the German gaffer does all he can to get his side knocked out of seemingly pointless tournaments. As Liverpool take on Everton in the FA Cup, this could be one of the Reds’ least predictable lineups of recent times.
There is no guessing what the boss will do this afternoon. What will win out in Klopp’s mind? His need to rest players? His respect for Carlo Ancelotti? His apathy for the domestic cups? The pride in beating Everton? The Spurs game next week?
The Reds are absolutely knackered at the minute. Jürgen’s men have played nine games since the start of December, their last game just three days ago against Sheffield United. With a Premier League title to win, Klopp will want his players fighting fit to take on Spurs in North London next Saturday.
However, with six days between the games – will the boss feel comfortable playing a strong side? We’ve worked well with much less recovery time in recent weeks and we have a further eight days rest after the Spurs game.
If the gaffer does decide to rest his team against Everton in the FA Cup, will he go for the kids or the backup brigade?
We know that the boss has a deep respect for Carlo Ancelotti, it may be uncharacteristic of Klopp to put out a significantly weakened side to face the Italian. Although, by fielding the kids against our local rivals we would rob the Toffees of any bragging rights should the nick a win – well done he’s 13 etcetera.
This is an impossible one to call. Personally, I’d like to see him throw some of the kids in with some of the backups – James Milner alongside Curtis Jones, Divock Origi alongside Harvey Elliott. Only time will tell.
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