Brendan Rodgers’ Liverpool prepare for the visit of table-toppers Chelsea this weekend bearing in mind what happened in the corresponding fixture last season. The Reds return from a narrow yet confidence-boosting defeat at the hands of Madrid in the mid-week, if there was any such kind of defeat. With the Northern Irishman surprising one and all with his team-selection in Madrid, its very difficult to second guess Rodgers ahead of a game he thinks holds more importance than the Champions League. Here’s a look at how the Reds MIGHT line up against leaders
Simon Mignolet
After his performance against Real Madrid which was, arguably, his best game in a Red shirt ahead of his Anfield debut last season; Simon Mignolet will look to continue the good form into this weekend. Looking more assertive and confident with every passing game – Mignolet will look to cement his number 1 spot with rumours of a new goalkeeper in January circling Anfield.
Javier Manquillo
The young Spanish full-back is everything Glen Johnson isn’t. Madrid-born Manquillo showed the best of his defensive qualities against the likes of Isco and Ronaldo in the Champions League. With the prospect of stopping Hazard around the corner, Rodgers’ ought to make the best use of Manquillo’s qualities.
Kolo Toure
Probably the best Liverpool player on the pitch in Madrid, Toure is expected to retain his spot in the line-up against Chelsea. Having dealt with Benzema and Ronaldo effectively, Toure will have Costa against him this weekend.
Dejan Lovren
The Croat should replace Skrtel who had a very shaky game at the back. The former Saints centre-half will have to turn up his game with the resurgence of Kolo Toure and the return of Mamadou Sakho from injury.
Alberto Moreno
The Spanish international had a memorable day at the Bernebeu as he strode forward with purpose every time he got the ball. Against a strong Chelsea side, Moreno will have to be at his tireless best to affect the game.
Lucas Leiva
The Brazilian proved just how important a top-class defensive midfielder is to Liverpool with his performance against Real Madrid. Though not as agile as before, Lucas’ reading of the game and positional sense is second to none.
Emre Can
Fearless and powerful are two adjectives that perfectly suit the young German’s game. The youngster adds another dimension to the Reds midfield while being solid defensively and putting in a shift for the team off the ball.
Raheem Sterling
After a bright start to the season, the teenager’s form has tailed off in recent weeks. His explosive pace and trickery will be key when Liverpool take on a Chelsea side that simply doesn’t know how to lose.
Steven Gerrard
The 34 year old skipper must be played in the number 10 behind the striker in such big games. With an eye for the killer pass and two-good feet to pop the ball in the net from outside the box, Gerrard’s presence in the final third is a cause of concern for any defence in the world.
Phillipe Coutinho
The twinkle-toed Brazilian came off the bench in the Champions League to run rings around Modric-Kroos just like he did in the home fixture. Against a stubborn Chelsea side, Coutinho’s magic on the ball will be key to Liverpool’s chances.
Fabio Borini
Despite being terribly isolated upfront, Fabio Borini’s performance against Madrid warrants a starting place at the weekend. A willful worker for the team, Borini is an assured finisher in the box who doesn’t mind having a crack from distance, Newcastle know all about that.