Stefan Bajcetic is hopeful of securing a starting berth in Liverpool’s starting XI to play Real Madrid next week.
Bajcetic was once again a standout player as the Reds beat Everton 2-0 last night – his fifth consecutive start for Liverpool. With the champions of his homeland coming to Anfield next Tuesday, the young Spaniard says it would be ‘special’ to feature.
“I’m Spanish, so that would be very special. I don’t know, [I’m taking it] week per week. If I’m in the team I play, if not, I’m still happy. Week by week,” Bacjetic told LFCTV after yesterday’s win.
Right now, the 18-year-old should fancy his chances of getting in the team next week. Who’d have thought that at the beginning of the season? Incredible progress.
Bajcetic looking to nail down starting spot
Before Madrid come to town for a repeat of last year’s Champions League final, Liverpool have a massive game with Newcastle United.
A win at St James’ Park would put them back in the picture for a top four place. But the Magpies have still only been beaten once in the Premier League this season. It’s one of the hardest places to visit in the country right now.
Still, that one defeat did come against Liverpool. With the Reds’ tails back up following a good win last night, they might just fancy their chances.
Whatever happens on Saturday, Liverpool will have to do it without Thiago Alcantara. The Spain international looks set to miss a number of games with a hip problem.
While a blow for Liverpool, this will obviously improve the likelihood of Bajcetic playing again.
Another start at the weekend would surely confirm that he’s now in Jurgen Klopp’s best XI and assured of his spot the following week.
Bajcetic showed last night that he’s just as comfortable in the ‘8’ position as he is sitting deeper. This should allow Klopp to go with the slightly rejuvenated Fabinho in the ‘6’ role, negating the need to rely on a teenager to protect the defence.
With Jordan Henderson providing the running, that looks as well balanced-a midfield as Klopp can put out right now. Unless injury strikes in the meantime, we think that’ll be what he goes with as Liverpool look for Champions League revenge.