Despite a disappointing draw away in Bulgaria, there were a lot of positives that Rodgers and his boys came away with, following the Champions League fixtures mid-week. The form of Rickie Lambert would’ve been a huge boost for the Reds and the fact that skipper Steven Gerrard can still make the cut at the tip of midfield diamond would have been a big plus as they take on an indifferent Stoke side this weekend. Here is a look at how the Reds might line up to face Mark Hughes’ Stoke side at Anfield.
Simon Mignolet
The Belgian retains his place in goal despite having a shocker in Bulgaria simply because of the lack of quality competition at Anfield. The former Sunderland man who is known as a good shot-stopper didn’t do himself any favours by fumbling a tame effort early on in the game handing the Bulgarian outfit a surprise lead. As Rodgers searches for an alternative in January, Mignolet has to fight to retain his place in the starting 11.
Javier Manquillo
The Spanish right-back is undoubtedly one of the better signings Rodgers made this transfer window. Defensively sound, Manquillo gave a good account of himself away in Bulgaria in sub-zero conditions. Evidently the youngster needs a little work on his attacking output but he can sort that out sooner rather than later.
Kolo Toure
The Ivorian did himself no favours after putting in a questionable performance mid-week against Ludogoretz. However, with Skrtel possibly tired after 2 games in 3 days, Toure might just get another opportunity to prove himself in defence.
Mamadou Sakho
The Frenchman returns from injury and ought to go straight into the starting 11. A physically imposing defender, Sakho might just offer the defensive solidity Rodgers has been craving.
Alberto Moreno
Mysteriously left on the bench for the Ludogoretz game, Moreno should go straight into the starting 11 against a defensive Stoke side. Undoubtedly the best signing of the summer, Moreno looks like a potentially world-class left back.
Lucas Leiva
His performance against Ludogoretz was proof enough that Lucas still has a lot to offer to the Reds as they try to restore a season that’s going downhill. A defensive midfielder of the highest order, Lucas protects the back-four while consistently ticking over the possession. Something that will be of utmost importance against a counter-attacking Stoke side.
Emre Can
The young German looks better in a Red shirt every passing game. Physical, fearless and tireless – Can has all the qualities to grow into a very important box-to-box player for the Reds. Replacing the industrious Joe Allen, Can will look to continue the good work the Welshman put in on the left of the diamond.
Jordan Henderson
The goal against Ludogoretz after another lung-bursting run would’ve done the 24 year-old vice-captain a world of good. Having gone missing in the recent weeks, Henderson will look to lead the side from the front against Stoke.
Adam Lallana
The former Southampton skipper was surprisingly left on the bench for the Champions League game mid-week. Gradually affecting the game more with his creativity and versatility, Lallana should go straight back into the starting 11 and try to replicate his performance against Palace.
Raheem Sterling
After weeks of under-performing, the teenager showed what he was all about once again in freezing conditions in Bulgaria. He will lead the line with Lambert once again this weekend, hoping to continue the good form.
Rickie Lambert
Confidence is a key to all strikers and 2 goals in 2 games would’ve done a world of good for the former Saints striker. Lambert won every header in mid-week and linked up play efficiently throughout the 90 minutes.