Liverpool are back in Premier League action for the very first time this season on Saturday.
The Reds travel to Fulham to kick-off their 2022/23 campaign with a lunchtime fixture. Although the squad now looks slightly different than it did a couple of months ago, the objectives remain the same.
Liverpool have one or two injury concerns as they head into the season. But these are largely restricted to squad players rather than any big-hitters.
As a result, Jurgen Klopp has almost a first-choice team to call upon. Here’s what we think Liverpool’s predicted XI vs Fulham will look like.
Defence
There is still a small question mark hovering over Alisson Becker‘s inclusion. But Klopp has insisted that the Brazilian will be available here, so we’re going with him to start. Maybe it’s a little harsh on £63k-a-week Adrian who has done well when called upon. But if Alisson’s even 50% fit, he has to play.
The rest of the back five rather picks itself. Owing to Ibrahima Konate’s injury, it looks as though the usual dilemma for Klopp at centre-back has been answered for him.
As a result of Konate’s misfortune, Joel Matip is likely to start alongside Virgil Van Dijk. Flanking those two will be Liverpool’s dynamic duo of Trent Alexander-Arnold and Andy Robertson.
Midfield
Liverpool’s midfield also looks very straightforward as The Reds lean on experience in the middle of the park.
With no new additions in the position, Fabinho once again heads into the season as potentially Klopp’s most important midfielder.
Thiago Alcantara is the only man who can rival him for that title. Both men will play on Saturday and should play whenever possible across the campaign.
Joining them should be Jordan Henderson. The captain started and did well in Saturday’s Community Shield and looks to have wrestled the shirt off Naby Keita for the time being.
Attack
As it was last Saturday, two of the three forward positions should be very clear. Luis Diaz is set for a big season and will continue in his left-sided berth.
Meanwhile, Mohamed Salah has taken on added significance after Sadio Mane’s departure. He’ll be looking to beat his own record by scoring on the opening day for a sixth season in a row. There’s no way he would pass that opportunity up.
Finally, Klopp must decide whether Darwin Nunez’s half-hour performance, and goal, are enough for him to start at Craven Cottage.
Personally, we think he’ll continue to ease Darwin in, despite his brilliant introduction at the King Power. That means Roberto Firmino gets the chance to remind everyone that he still has plenty to offer.
The new season is almost here, and that Liverpool XI looks as strong as ever. Come on you Reds!
Liverpool predicted XI vs Fulham: Alisson; Alexander-Arnold, Matip, Van Dijk, Robertson; Fabinho, Henderson, Thiago; Salah, Firmino, Diaz
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