Kelleher Misses Out; Minamino And Origi To Start | Predicted 4-3-3 Liverpool Lineup Vs Preston North End | OneFootball

After inflicting a 5-0 defeat on arch-rivals Manchester United, Liverpool will shift their attention to the Carabao Cup, as they take on Preston North End on Wednesday. This game will offer Jurgen Klopp the opportunity to rotate his pack and rest some key players, especially with crucial games against Brighton & Hove Albion and Atletico Madrid coming up.

Predicted Liverpool Lineup Vs Preston

Defence

Caoimhin Kelleher was dealt with a blow on the weekend when he missed out on the Manchester United game due to illness. He remains a doubt heading into this game, giving Adrian the edge as Klopp looks to make a change in goal this midweek.

Further changes are expected in the Liverpool backline, with the two premier fullbacks in Andrew Robertson and Trent Alexander-Arnold returning to the bench. Kostas Tsimikas, therefore, is set for a berth at left-back while Conor Bradley could be in contention for a spot at right-back, ahead of Neco Williams.

In central defence, Klopp should make two direct swaps by bringing in Joe Gomez and Joel Matip, giving some much-needed breather to Virgil van Dijk and new signing Ibrahima Konate, who is growing in confidence after arriving from RB Leipzig in the summer.

WATFORD, ENGLAND – OCTOBER 16: Caoimhin Kelleher of Liverpool warms up prior to the Premier League match between Watford and Liverpool at Vicarage Road on October 16, 2021 in Watford, England. (Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)

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Midfield

In midfield, Liverpool have a plethora of players out injured including James Milner, Thiago Alcantara and Naby Keita, who was stretchered off in the victory over Manchester United. Fabinho is a major doubt as well, with no likelihood of him being risked in this cup game.

It hands a major selection dilemma for Klopp, who is likely to unleash Curtis Jones in the second line of press, along with Alex-Oxlade Chamberlain. Jordan Henderson, meanwhile, should continue in the holding role, giving some much-important experience in the middle of the park.

Attack

There should be a complete reshuffle in the attacking unit as well. The in-form Mohamed Salah will be rested for the Premier League match, along with Roberto Firmino and Diogo Jota.

As for the actual starters, Divock Origi is set to spearhead the Liverpool frontline. Additional width and support could be provided by Takumi Minamino but unfortunately, the injury of Harvey Elliott could see Klopp being forced to start with Sadio Mane. Kyle Gordon, though, is an option as well, should the German tactician opt for youthful exuberance.