Liverpool vs Fulham: Gerrard’s protege gets an opportunity as Robertson makes a comeback
Goals from Curtis Jones and Cody Gakpo have put Liverpool in a strong position to win their first piece of silverware this season. Jones, who has been impressing at Anfield all season, delivered a stellar performance in the first leg. The 22-year-old attacking midfielder has finally emerged under Klopp and understands his manager’s expectations. Despite external calls to sell or loan Jones to a lower-status Premier League side, Liverpool held firm in their belief in him. Jones was a favorite of club legend Steven Gerrard during his time as the Under-18s manager, and Gerrard predicted that Jones would break into the senior Liverpool XI, a prediction that has now come true. Jones will likely play alongside Alexis Mac Allister and Harvey Elliott in midfield, and the pressure will be on him to perform in such an important match.
Elliott, who will be facing his former club, still has much to prove to Klopp and his backroom staff. He is expected to start the match, as Dominik Szoboszlai is a week away from returning to full fitness and Wataru Endo is away at the Asia Cup. While Mac Allister has been impressive for Liverpool, Klopp likes to rotate his squad, so summer signing Ryan Gravenberch may come on as a substitute to keep things fresh.
Assistant manager Pep Ljinders has confirmed that Andy Robertson will be in the match day squad after recovering from a shoulder injury. Klopp is eager to have his influential left back back on the pitch due to his goal contributions and leadership qualities. Connor Bradley and Joe Gomez are likely to retain their places at full back, with Robertson potentially making a substitute appearance. Trent Alexander-Arnold, Thiago Alcantara, and Stefan Bajcetic will remain unavailable for the match.
Liverpool’s predicted starting XI includes Kelleher in goal, Bradley, Konate, Van Dijk, and Gomez in defense, Elliott, Mac Allister, and Jones in midfield, and Díaz, Gakpo, and Jota up front.
