KopTalk.com Forums Football Liverpool FC Forum Chelsea v Liverpool

Big game this one, but I think we're getting them at a good time, as they've not quite settled into any kind of rhythm under their new manager just yet. I'm very interested to see how both Conte and Klopp set up for this game. I'd expect Conte to be wary of our attacking threat, so I'd be surprised if he goes gung-ho from the start, even though he's at home. I'm expecting a cagey start from Conte, but I suspect Klopp will want to try and keep them on the back foot and not invite them onto his shaky defence, so I'd expect early pressure from us. It'll be a tough test I feel , so I'd play:

Migs (unless Karius is ready)

Clyne, Matip Lovern, Milner

Mane, Henderson, Wijnaldum

Firmino, Sturridge, Coutinho

Given that their captain is coming back from a bit of an ankle injury and is likely to be lacking a bit of fitness I'd target him early and test his pace which I regard as suspect. I think we could get in behind them, so I'm going for a hard fought 2 - 3 here, and further progress towards my dream challenge this season!
What do you folks think?

I would be shocked if Lallana wasn't picked he's been outstanding for the last few months.


Mane, Lallana, Clyne, Matip, Lovren look certain barring injuries

2 out of Firmino, Coutinho and Sturridge will play I think.

I'd expect Hendo and Milner to play.

Yeah, I thought long and hard about Lallana, as he has been better this season, but went for Wijnaldum for a bit extra muscle in this contest, but yes I'd be happy enough if Klopp opts for Lallana's work rate, but I'd expect him to get knocked about a bit, that's all.

Karius (I think he will start)

Clyne Matip lovren milner

Henderson wijnaldum

Mane coutinho lallana

Firminio

I can't see Sturridge starting 2 games in a row. While you shouldn't change a winning side I can't see coutinho being left out.

I think Lallana will start and not Sturridge. I would have preferred Sturridge to start ahead of Firmino, but after Saturday's performance I am not too sure if Sturridge is better than Firmino right now.

Yes Lallana has to play. I think Coutinho will come in for Sturridge, I personally think he should play in midfield instead of Wijnaldum but can't see it happening. Not a good game to throw Karius in to. Better to give him his debut against Derby I think. I fancy us to get a good result in this game, no way Chelsea keep us out, especially if David Luiz plays. I think we'll score at least 2. Either 2-1 to us or 2-2.

well Can is probably coming back

do we really want to press chelsea. interesting to see if lucas comes back into midfield, and origi hasn't started a single match this season, many questions to be solved.

herc is right big test this one, you could almost bet your house on chelsea getting in the top four (I don't advise it)

No need for Karius to come in and take over at the moment, Mignolet has been doing well.

I'd just replace Lucas with a recognized CB and go with same team v Leicester. No point in changing the team too much, we need consistency...I'd introduce Can later on to increase his game fitness! Let Chelsea worry about us, rather than us worry about them...play to our current strengths!

I'm not sure we have any option but to press them, as I doubt we could successfully play keep-ball against them, they're technically a very capable side. If we let them build a head of steam against us we could well be steamrolled I fear. My confidence...if that's what it is! Is coming from a belief, or perhaps hope, that they haven't found their mojo yet. I think we just have to man up and go at them and play our own game, which is built on an all action pressing style. If we play their game I'd be worried.