Jurgen Klopp faces Fabinho’s decision as Liverpool consider a forward review



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Liverpool extended their unbeaten streak to eight games as they moved together to the top of the Premier League with the victory over Leicester City.

An own goal by Jonny Evans was followed by goals from Diogo Jota and Roberto Firmino to give the Reds an impressive 3-0 win at Anfield on Sunday.

The Premier League and the world champions are now back to focus on the Champions League, where three points at home to Atalanta on Wednesday will guarantee a knockout spot with two matches to spare.

And here we look at the changes Jurgen Klopp could make when his team is next in action.

Full back rotation?

Liverpool have not been reduced to a minimum on defense, but the options have become limited.

Virgil van Dijk, Joe Gomez and Trent Alexander-Arnold are out, while Nat Phillips is ineligible for the Champions League.

Given that Joel Matip, James Milner and Fabinho are unlikely to start three games in a week, Klopp faces some tough decisions.

One from Matip or Fabinho will likely be rotated to the bench, meaning teenager Rhys Williams could make another Champions League start.

Andy Robertson must rest with Kostas Tsimikas waiting on the left back, while on the other flank Neco Williams impressed in a half-hour cameo against Leicester and could replace the evergreen Milner.

The same again for the engine room.

In midfield, a lot could depend on whether Fabinho starts on defense and whether Jordan Henderson or Thiago Alcantara are fit.

They have both been battling injuries and it would be a surprise if either of them were involved.

Milner could come in to augment the engine room like he did when he switched right back after Naby Keita limped off at the weekend.

But with Keita and Xherdan Shaqiri almost certain to be lost and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain not ready, Gini Wjnaldum and Curtis Jones will likely be asked to play again after starring against Leicester.

Incorrect returns

The availability of Mohamed Salah means that Liverpool’s top scorer should return after contracting the coronavirus.

Liverpool could cover the lack of availability in midfield by switching to 4-2-3-1.



Liverpool star Mohamed Salah

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However, Sadio Mane looked tired against Leicester and could be benched, while Takumi Minamino and Divock Origi have been patiently waiting for another opening opportunity.

Minamino could replace Roberto Firmino, although Diogo Jota, the fit man, would surely want to retain his place.



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