Predicted Liverpool XI vs Qarabag: Robertson & Konaté Return; Slot Reverts to 4-2-3-1

After a disappointing loss to Bournemouth on the weekend, Liverpool wrap up Phase Play of the Champions League against Qarabag from Azerbaijan on January 28th at Anfield. With a win, the Reds can assure advancement to the Round of 16 and would likely reach it with a draw. If theylose, Liverpool would enter the playoff phase of the competition.

After a disastrous experiment with a 4-2-2-2 formation, I expect Arne Slot to return to a 4-2-3-1 formation that he used during the 13-match unbeaten run.

• GK: Alisson – Should have done better to claim the ball on Bournemouth’s game-winner, but still gets the start here.
• RB: Jeremie Frimpong - Qarabag will not be able to match his speed
• CB: Ibrahima Konaté - Returns to the lineup after a family issue caused him to miss the last two matches. If he needs more time, due to the Joe Gomez injury, Wataru Endō will get the nod
• CB Virgil Van Dijk (C) - The captain took responsibility for the club’s performance last time out. I expect a big performance from him and the rest of the club
• LB: Andy Robertson - Slot was unhappy with Milos Kerkez’s performance in the last match and pulled him off at halftime. Robertson played very well in his place, so he should get the start here
• CM: Curtis Jones - Jones came on as a late sub, so he should be rested. Plus, Alexis Mac Allister has been getting heavy minutes recently 
• CM: Ryan Gravenberch - Continues his run as a regular starter under Slot.
• RW: Mohamed Salah - Had some bright moments and disappeared in others, but you don’t leave the Egyptian King on the bench
• AM: Dominik Szboszlai - Two goals in two matches for the Hungarian. Would not be surprised if he makes it a third.
• LW: Florian Wirtz – Should be a big playmaker in this one to either score or create for others 
• ST: Hugo  Ekitiké - Ekitiké has been in good form of late 

Key Stat to Watch: This is the first-ever meeting between the two clubs. Qarabag have 13 league titles in their history.

Final Score Prediction: Liverpool 3 - Qarabag 1

Star Man: Mohamed Salah

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