Liverpool take on Inter Milan tonight in one of those classic Champions League games under the lights at Anfield.
As well as being a huge tie in itself, the match-up has given Liverpool fans the chance to run the rule over reported transfer target Lautaro Martinez.
The Argentinian was with the Inter squad last night as they touched down in Liverpool. The squad then headed to Anfield. Martinez looked focused as he surveyed his surroundings beneath a mask.
Last week, Liverpool were claimed to be ‘monitoring’ the 24-year-old. That was according to Calcio Mercato.
Martinez didn’t manage to inflict any damage on his would-be suitors in the first-leg. But having helped himself to a hat-trick in Inter’s last game, he comes to Anfield full of confidence.
Liverpool will have to be mindful of his abilities. You don’t get called ‘spectacular’ by Lionel Messi for nothing.
Liverpool prepare
Back at the AXA Training Centre, Liverpool were finalising preparations of their own. It was great to see Thiago Alcantara returning after being forced to miss the Carabao Cup final.
Roberto Firmino was also involved. The 30-year-old had missed the last three weeks since netting against Inter.
Firmino and Fabinho are close off the pitch and can often be seen training together. It appears that Bobby missed his teammate so much that he’s even decided to grow a Fabinho-esque goatee!
Joel Matip is back after missing the weekend game with West Ham United through illness.
Joe Gomez was also in training ahead of the game. He will be hoping he has done enough during Matip’s short absence to earn a start tonight.
With Ibrahima Konate missing the session, there is potentially a spot open next to Virgil Van Dijk.
Attack attack attack
Liverpool don’t necessarily need to score to progress in the competition this evening. But if they can, it will surely put the tie to bed.
After a little lay off, Diogo Jota is getting back up to full fitness. The 25-year-old will be hoping to be back on the scoresheet tonight after a five game drought.
Sadio Mane and Mohamed Salah are a threat for any team in this competition. Salah has eight goals in seven games in the competition.
Mane, meanwhile has scored 12 Champions League knockout stage goals for Liverpool since 2018.
Inter beware!
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