Federico Chiesa Set for a Rare Chance as Arne Slot Considers Resting Six Liverpool Players
Arne Slot is anticipated to make several changes when Liverpool face PSV Eindhoven on Wednesday.
Slot made five alterations to the starting line-up for Liverpool’s 4-1 victory over Ipswich Town, and the Dutch manager is expected to rotate his squad again for the Champions League clash in Eindhoven.
Liverpool have already secured their place in the round of 16 and are assured of finishing in the top two in the revamped tournament’s league phase.
The Reds have been dominant, winning all seven of their matches so far, and are three points ahead of second-placed Barcelona heading into their final league game.
As a result, they only need a draw to clinch the top spot, while Barcelona must defeat Atalanta to have any chance of overtaking Liverpool.
Slot’s emphatic victory over Ipswich allowed him to rest key players, with Cody Gakpo, Dominik Szoboszlai, and Ryan Gravenberch substituted midway through the second half.
Returning to his home country, Slot is likely to rotate the squad further, especially with a challenging trip to AFC Bournemouth on the horizon. Newsnow Liverpool examines the potential changes Slot might make to his starting XI.
Andy Robertson Retained
Andy Robertson is expected to retain his position at left-back, while Conor Bradley may replace Trent Alexander-Arnold, having previously started against Lille.
Jarell Quansah could feature once more after making his full Champions League debut against the Ligue 1 side. Slot faces a decision on whether to continue easing Ibrahima Konaté back following his injury or to give Virgil van Dijk a rare break.
While Alisson Becker remains Liverpool’s first-choice goalkeeper, Caoimhin Kelleher is likely to step in should Slot decide to rest the Brazilian.
Wataru Endo and Harvey Elliott to Start
Although Ryan Gravenberch was substituted relatively early against Ipswich, Slot might still opt to rest his fellow countryman for the clash with PSV. In that case, Wataru Endo is available and ready to step in.
Harvey Elliott could be handed a chance to start in his preferred role as a number 10. However, with Curtis Jones expected to be sidelined due to injury—and unlikely to be risked even if fit—either Dominik Szoboszlai or Alexis Mac Allister will need to complete the midfield trio.
Tyler Morton is another option should Slot decide to overhaul the entire midfield.
Federico Chiesa Handed a Chance
Cody Gakpo will be eager to feature against his former club and is likely to retain his spot after being substituted during the Ipswich match. Meanwhile, Darwin Núñez could push for a recall to lead the line.
Federico Chiesa might be considered for just his second start for Liverpool if Slot decides to take the rare opportunity to rest Mohamed Salah. With Diogo Jota still sidelined due to injury, Jayden Danns also emerges as an alternative option in attack.
In other news, Jamie Carragher Names Perfect Mohamed Salah Replacement Who Would ‘Fit the Bill’ for Liverpool
