By Dan Clubbe
After what had been a season to forget for the most part, Liverpool have finally kicked into gear in recent weeks with a Merseyside derby win backed up by an impressive 2-0 victory at St James’ Park to not only close the gap on the Premier League top four but also instil some much-needed belief among the fanbase and indeed the players.
On the back of those two domestic wins comes perhaps the sternest test in European football however, the reigning European champions and familiar foes to the Reds, Real Madrid in the UEFA Champions League Round of 16.
Despite not topping La Liga and with significant players missing the trip, Carlo Ancelotti’s side come to Anfield with the confidence that they’ve got Liverpool’s number following recent meetings, none less important than last season’s Paris finale.
But, Jurgen Klopp has made a habit of producing miracles during his time on Merseyside and the stage is set for another European night to remember in L4…
Here’s how we should line up: Formation 4-3-3
Given the recent upturn in performances and results, there seems little need for Klopp to make changes to what is now a winning side.
Darwin Nunez took part in training yesterday despite coming off against Newcastle United with a shoulder problem and therefore should be ready to start.
Virgil van Dijk and Joe Gomez kept a clean sheet last time out and their combination of pace and power looks to be the best match-up for the likes of Karim Benzema and Vinicius Jr.
Further forwards the combative midfield trio of Stefan Bajcetic, Fabinho and Jordan Henderson has offered much-needed tenacity to the Reds’ engine room and should be chosen to go again once more fo this one!
Lineup prediction: Alisson; Alexander-Arnold, Gomez, Van Dijk, Robertson; Fabinho, Henderson, Bajcetic; Salah, Gakpo, Nunez.
Score prediction: Liverpool 2-0 Real Madrid
Don’t forget to join us for the Uncensored Match Build-Up from 6.45pm…
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