Latest Liverpool news as Newsnow Liverpool brings you the five new must-start players for Jurgen Klopp ahead of Tottenham test.
What’s the Latest Liverpool News?
Liverpool’s current form is indeed remarkable, boasting an impressive streak of seven consecutive wins across all competitions since their opening day draw in the Premier League.
This impressive run of victories sets the stage for their most challenging opponent this season, as they prepare to face Tottenham away on Saturday. Ange Postecoglou’s Spurs will undoubtedly aim to relentlessly attack Jurgen Klopp’s side, hoping to make a statement.
For Liverpool, the upcoming fixtures against Spurs and Brighton will carry significant weight in determining their standing – whether they are genuine contenders for the title or locked in a fierce battle for a top-four finish. As Liverpool head to the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, Klopp’s winning squad has revealed several new must-start players.
Five Must-start Liverpool Players
Even before the start of this season, it was evident that goalkeeper Alisson, right-back Trent Alexander-Arnold, left-back Andy Robertson, center-back Virgil van Dijk, and winger Mohamed Salah were essential in the Premier League lineup as long as they remained fit.
However, the addition of Dominik Szoboszlai has marked a notable addition to this list. Often referred to as the darling of ‘Liverpool 2.0,’ Szoboszlai’s dynamic playing style draws comparisons to the legendary Steven Gerrard.
His recent Carabao Cup goal showcased his ability in a Gerrard-esque manner, emphasising his incredible engine and quality on the ball. Szoboszlai has assumed a pivotal role in the new-look midfield.
Another summer signing, Alexis Mac Allister, has made a significant impact on the team’s performance in midfield. Despite his natural inclination towards an attacking role, he has been deployed as the No 6, consistently displaying his intelligence and precision in passing. Presently, both Szoboszlai and Mac Allister are indispensable, securing their spots in the starting lineup against Spurs.
Curtis Jones has excelled in a role akin to Gini Wijnaldum’s. His ability to facilitate play and contribute effectively both on and off the ball has solidified his position as a regular starter.
Even though he started as a right-back against Leicester midweek, Jones remains a surefire starter. While Thiago Alcantara’s return looms on the horizon, Harvey Elliott, Ryan Gravenberch, and Wataru Endo offer other robust options in midfield. Nevertheless, for now, Szoboszlai, Mac Allister, and Jones form the go-to trio.
The future may reveal whether Wataru Endo can make his way into the starting lineup, potentially leading to Mac Allister replacing Jones as the left-sided No 8. A glimpse of hope emerged from Endo’s performance against Leicester. Notably, Liverpool have now established a first-choice front three under Klopp.
Luis Diaz holds the No 1 spot on the left flank, edging out Diogo Jota, despite both tallying three goals each this season. Diaz’s explosive style of play makes him the preferred choice to start matches. Similarly, the highly active Darwin Nunez takes the lead as the starting center-forward over Cody Gakpo in league matches.
Nunez, especially after his stellar brace against Newcastle, has been instrumental in wins against Aston Villa, Wolves, and West Ham. His constant movement behind the defense and improved pressing have breathed life into Liverpool’s attack. Nunez is steadily evolving into the high-impact striker Klopp envisioned when he acquired him.
Hence, for the time being, with injuries and poor form as potential exceptions, ten of Liverpool’s eleven starting positions appear relatively secure. The only spot that remains open to debate is the center-back position next to Virgil van Dijk. The competition is fierce, with the revitalised pair of Joe Gomez and Joel Matip vying with Ibrahima Konate.
In the upcoming clash against Spurs, Konate might be entrusted with the task of keeping pace with the relentless Son Heung-min. This choice is influenced by Trent Alexander-Arnold’s recent return from injury, which is expected to see Joe Gomez slot in as the right-back.
The Brighton fixture may bring another shift in the center-back position, with Gomez, Konate, or Matip competing. It’s been a while since Liverpool’s squad has felt this strong and well-rounded.