Liverpool will look to turn a difficult start under manager Andoni Iraola into a positive result when they play their first Premier League game at Anfield against Nottingham Forest later today.
The Reds were forced to settle for a 2-2 draw against Newcastle United last Sunday after needing a late Dominik Szoboszlai penalty to rescue a point.
While the result showed character, it also highlighted several weaknesses in a squad that still needs strengthening before the transfer window closes.
Rio Ngumoha started on the right flank, with in-demand Cody Gakpo operating on the left.
While Gakpo got on the scoresheet, Liverpool struggled to provide enough service for £125 million striker Alexander Isak to make a major impact.
They also struggled in midfield, with Ryan Gravenberch and Szoboszlai criticised for their off-the-ball performance, particularly in both Newcastle goals.
That’s another area Liverpool will hope to strengthen in the next couple of days.
Saturday will give Iraola his first chance to manage Liverpool in a league match at Anfield. The new boss will demand more defensive discipline and a better attacking display from his side.
On the bright side, Liverpool have won their opening home league match in 12 of the last 13 seasons so they should have no problems keeping that record alive.
How Liverpool could line up
After surviving an early scare against Newcastle, Iraola could tweak the line-up that shared the spoils at St James’ Park.
Alisson retains his place in goal, while Jeremie Frimpong and Milos Kerkez line up on either side of Virgil van Dijk and Jeremy Jacquet.
There could be changes in midfield as Alexis Mac Allister returns to partner Ryan Gravenberch, while Dominik Szoboszlai replaces Florian Wirtz in the number 10 role.
Victor Munoz was a game-changer for Liverpool against Newcastle. The £34.5 million star could be rewarded with his first start for the Reds, partnering Cody Gakpo and Alexander Isak in the frontline.
Predicted Liverpool starting XI
(4-2-3-1): Alisson; Frimpong, Jacquet, Van Dijk, Kerkez; Mac Allister, Gravenberch; Munoz, Szoboszlai, Gakpo; Isak.
