Fabio Carvalho could be in-line to start for Liverpool this weekend as they take on Bournemouth at Anfield.
That’s according to the Liverpool Echo, who claim that the 19-year-old is in contention for a place in the starting eleven.
It’s claimed that Jurgen Klopp could use Saturday’s game as a ‘testing ground’ for a new 4-2-3-1 formation.
Carvalho impressed in his short time on the pitch against Manchester United. As a result, he could reportedly take his place in the ’10’ position, behind Roberto Firmino, Luis Diaz and Mohamed Salah in the Liverpool attack.
Perfect timing for Carvalho to start
For some, it may seem too early to throw Carvalho in from the start. He’s still only nineteen after all. With Liverpool spluttering, it could lead to unnecessary pressure being placed on the forward as some sort of saviour.
But at the same time, Carvalho couldn’t really look more ready for it. In hindsight, his introduction from the bench at Old Trafford should have come much earlier.
Liverpool looked a different threat with him on the pitch. His industry led to Salah’s consolation goal and he generally looked bright.
Others in The Reds attack and midfield areas have really failed to get going so far this season. Liverpool can’t afford to be patient anymore. They need as many in-form players on the pitch as they can get on Saturday.
Those are currently very few and far between in the Liverpool squad, but Carvalho is surely one of them. As Harvey Elliott told The Athletic during pre-season, the youngster looks ‘special.’
With respect to Bournemouth, who are currently above The Reds in the table, it couldn’t be a kinder fixture to give the youngster his full debut.
If he starts and plays well, there could be an opportunity for him to cement his place in the team. As Carvalho looks to sneak his way into Portugal’s World Cup squad, there’s a huge incentive there for him to give it his all.
Let’s be honest, it can’t get much worse than it’s been already this season. Why not give the kid a go.
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