No doubt this is probably the most difficult period we've endured under the Klopp era and it's difficult to see how or where we find the solution to address multiple issues across the whole of the pitch from the defence, through the midfield and into the forward line. Despite a lot of frustration amongst the fan base at the cancellation of the Wolves match due to the death of the Queen, there is no doubt that the miniature break was well timed from a Liverpool perspective. There is little optimism that everything will be addressed by the time Champions League football returns to Anfield this season and the match kicks off against Ajax on Tuesday evening, but there is hope that there will be a marked improvement from the dreadful display against Napoli. In fact, the Kop will demand it.
So many players look tired, so many holes have appeared in what has previously been an impenetrable defence in previous seasons. That is why changes have to happen, and for me we need to use our squad to try to turn this around and arrest the decline in form. The postponement of the game next weekend against Chelsea may give Klopp reason to go again with the same players, but an extended rest for some should be taken advantage of. At the back Matip needs to come back into the defence - I don't necessarily think Gomez has been the source of all problems but for a guy who played very little football last season we have been over reliant on him so far in this campaign and he needs a break. Robbo is injured so Tsimikas is a certain starter, and I think Trent should continue despite his lack of form. Above all those who may start the match, the Anfield crowd need to give him the greatest support to rediscover his zing. We consider him one of our most experienced players but he is only just 23 years old, he needs an arm around the shoulder.
I believe in midfield it's Thiago and Arthur who should start, and I feel Fabinho should also play, even though he has looked exhausted recently. With the added protection of having Thiago play in front of him, he should not have as much work to do or need to cover as much ground. Up front I would give Sarah a rest and Jota also starts for me, Nunez in the striker role, and I would continue to play Diaz, our only bright spark in recent games.
Christian also goes for the same team as me staying 'I go for changes for this line up too and hope that we have used our time for the best since last game'.
Anton also sees a number of changes, resting Trent with Gomez at right back, and starting with Bobby in an attacking central midfield role. He says 'This is the worst period of football I have watched a Klopp team play. Our whole identity is missing, we are a very intense team that runs our opponents off the pitch but that hasn't happened recently, have we run out of steam? On that note, changes have to be made to improve the situation'. He goes with the following team:
Joe goes with a similar team to myself and Christian, although he starts Salah rather than Jota:
So interesting. Selections - what's certain is that we need a performance over and above a win, but a win at this stage is almost equally as important to get confidence back. A clean sheet and two goals for me please Liverpool!
Up the Reds - as always and forever.
Paul Collins
LFC Fanatic
@IrishRedDubai
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