22 Jan 2016

Liverpool XI vs. Norwich: New injury 'doubt'; two surprise debuts? Klopp confirms Sturridge is 'in a good way'

After the 3-0 midweek victory over Exeter City, Liverpool have yet another chance to build momentum with an eminently winnable game at Carrow Road. As this season has proven time and time again, nothing can be take for granted in the Premier League, but surely the Reds are capable of beating Norwich City?

Jurgen Klopp's pre-match updates:

* On Lallana: "Adam Lallana is a doubt. He trained yesterday, but not normal training. He has a little issue with his muscle".

* On Sturridge: "In this moment he’s in a good way, but he still needs time. The last four days were good, but we’ll have to see".

I'd never wish injury on anyone, but I won't be shedding any tears if Lallana has to sit this one out (!)

After his impressive midweek performance, Joao Carlos Teixeira is the obvious replacement, but even though the Portuguese attacker created some great chances, tracked back well *and* capped it all off with a superb goal, he'll probably end up back on the bench.

Brad Smith is another Academy youngster who deserves to feature against Norwich, and if Benteke starts the game, I'd have Smith in the team ahead of Moreno, mainly for his superior crossing ability. My preferred lineup:

-------------- Ward
Clyne ---- Sakho - Caulker ---- Moreno
---- Hendo --- Lucas -- Allen
---------- Ibe --- Teixeira
------------ Firmino

With Benteke in the team:

-------------- Ward
Clyne ---- Sakho - Caulker ---- Smith
--------- Hendo --- Lucas
-- Milner --- Firmino --- Teixeira
------------- Benteke

With Benteke in the team, a 4231 formation is infinitely preferable to 4321, as it means there are more players available to support him in the box. With 4321, the Belgian is too isolated up-front, which inevitably leads to frustration.

PL

The table for the last two games will be updated later tonight. You have until Saturday 12:45pm (GMT) to participate.

* 20 Points: First goalscorer.

* 20 Points: First Liverpool player to deliver a cross into the box (either lofted, or along the ground).

* 30 Points: Collective loss of possession (LFC)

* 50 Point Triple-Whammy: Perfect score + First goalscorer + first cross (Possible points total: 120)

* The Lt. Colonel Frank Slade Mega-Bonus: 100 points for Perfect score + First goalscorer + first cross + loss of possession (Possible points total: 200)

My prediction: 2-1 Norwich. Ibe first goalscorer. 21 lop. Ibe first cross


Good luck!

Author: Jaimie K


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