Liverpool could have more than handled Joel Matip’s absence with the option of Ibrahima Konate waiting in the wings after his injury return.
It wouldn’t have sat well with the Reds to hear of a minor muscle concern for the Frenchman ahead of their biggest game of the season.
However, the former RB Leipzig star could still start the contest at Anfield, knowing the hosts’ record it seems plausible that no chances will be taken while Trent Alexander-Arnold and the Cameroonian remain out of action, leaving Nat Phillips. (in just 63 Premier League minutes this term) to partner Virgil van Dijk.
READ MORE: Nat Phillips starts v Manchester City as four changes made – Liverpool team news predicted
It is perhaps just as plausible that James Milner would take the right-back slot for our No. 66 to allow the comparatively safer No. 2 to start in the heart of the baseline.
However, we imagine our coaching staff might balk at the idea of ​​the 36-year-old starting because of the concerns we’ve had in that general area.
Jurgen Klopp will have to make this absolutely wise decision if we are to have any hope of taking home most of the spoils in a match that could very well define our league campaign.
Exclusive: Liverpool eye four Galatasaray talents as European scouts flock to Istanbul
