Jordan Henderson or Fabinho will play the holding role against Atletico Madrid next week. Jurgen Klopp’s choice will define how the team plays.
Liverpool have a wonderful luxury in their choices here. Each player has been brilliant this season, for one thing, but they also play the role differently.
In Fabinho, Liverpool have a traditional, defensive holding midfielder. The Brazilian can anchor the team and break up play, arguably doing so better than anyone since his £39m arrival.
Henderson is different, however. While he certainly can shield the defence, he’s far more energetic. Henderson will press high and break from midfield, looking to join the attack – things he’s done ever since arriving for £20m.
It leads to a less controlled Liverpool and one constantly on the front foot. With Fabinho, though, Liverpool can kill games a little easier.
So Klopp faces a choice against Atletico. Does he want to attack Atletico at their home and try to win the game? A win would virtually end the tie, after all.
Or does the Liverpool boss instead play it safe. He can try to control the game, make sure things are tight and take no risks. Then it’s back to Anfield where Liverpool will fancy a routine win.
The first plan calls for Henderson. The captain will keep the Reds on the front foot and his inclusion means another attacking player in midfield.
The latter, though, is for Fabinho. Henderson would likely play on the right of the midfield three, assuring a compact, hard-working trio along with Gini Wijnaldum. If Klopp wants to limit the risk, that’s the one to go for.
Whether Klopp chooses Henderson or Fabinho to face Atletico, Liverpool will be favourites. It just depends how he wants to go about it. And as he’s proven in his time at Anfield, he gets it right virtually every time.
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