Jurgen Klopp faces the puzzle of Dejan Lovren as Liverpool reflects on the shake of midfield

Liverpool is the Premier League champion, and now the victory lap begins.

The Reds secured the title with seven games remaining when their 4-0 victory over Crystal Palace on Wednesday was followed 24 hours later by closest rivals Manchester City losing to Chelsea.

The new champions will face the deposed at Etihad on Thursday night, the first in a hectic six-game race over 17 days.

Jurgen Klopp will now consider his options after naming his strongest possible side against Palace last week.

And here we look at the changes the Reds boss could make when his side is next in action.

Paste or turn on the back?

Two successive clean sheets since the season resumed, with seven different players starting on defense, indicates that solidity is not an issue at the back.

And with James Milner and Joel Matip, whose right foot is in a protective boot, once again almost certain to be pushed aside, Klopp’s options are limited.

However, one option available is to bring Dejan Lovren to the center of the back. After all, the Croatian has started six of the last seven games against City.

Neco Williams made his Premier League debut off the bench midweek, but this match is unlikely to be his first outing in the top flight.

Hungry like an ox

Klopp went with the court and trusted against Palace in the engine room, with captain Jordan Henderson accompanied by Fabinho and Gini Wijnaldum.

It meant that Naby Keita fell to the bench despite a good performance at Everton.

The Guinean will be a genuine option, as will Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, who has been unable to start either game since the season began.

Xherdan Shaqiri and Curtis Jones are back and available after the injury, Jones among the substitutes last Wednesday, but this could be a bit early for anyone.

Minamino ready

The three regular strikers met with devastating effect against Palace, with Sadio Mane and Mohamed Salah scoring.

Klopp has alternatives, with Takumi Minamino in the past two games and Divock Origi eager to contribute.

However, the duo may have a better chance to start Aston Villa at home on Sunday.

Harvey Elliott, meanwhile, would enjoy yet another bank break against such exalted opposition.