UEFA Europa League Match Preview:
When Liverpool got themselves relegated from Champions League in December, a mere mention of Europa League was enough to cause un-rest amongst the Liverpool fans. However, with their recent form in the Premier League ascending, the Reds’ fans are looking forward to the competition which can become their entry ticket for next season’s Champions League.
Here is how Liverpool might lineup against Besiktas in the first leg: –
Simon Mignolet
For a man who was a main reason for their exclusion from the Champions League, Simon Mignolet can be labeled as one of the most improved player for Liverpool this season. Since sitting out from that 3-0 humbling by Manchester United, the Belgian is in top form.
Emre Can
When Liverpool signed Emre Can from Bayern Leverkusen in the summer of 2014, it was thought that the midfielder would be a solid replacement for Steven Gerrard in the long-term. However, call it the action of nature that the German is now one of the most promising full-back in top 5 European Leagues.
Martin Skrtel
Although the Slovakian had some nervy moments in Liverpool’s FA Cup outing at the Selhurst Park, his form of late should be enough to grant him a place in the Liverpool back three.
Mamdaou Sakho
As they say football is a game of two halves, Mamadou Sakho’s career in a Liverpool shirt has been a reminiscence of this statement. Although he was reduced to the bench in the opening 6 months of this season, the Frenchman is now becoming a popular player around Merseyside due to his efforts on both on and off the pitch.
Jordan Henderson
Coming out from that match against Crystal Palace where he provided Daniel Sturridge with the latter’s 3rd goal since returning from injury, Jordan Henderson took his assists tally to 10 for the season. And with a lot of football left to be played, the upcoming Liverpool captain is eyeing for something promising this season.
Joe Allen
Although there has been a lot of turnarounds for majority of Liverpool players this season, the Welsh Xavi – as was quoted by Brendan Rodgers on his arrival – has failed to live up to the expectations. However, with both Lucas Leiva and Steven Gerrard injured, Joe Allen might make his mark on Thursday.
Adam Lallana
Signed from Southampton for a hefty price tag, the summer buy is finally starting to live up to the expectations. With his goal against Crystal Palace that was his () of the season, Lallana booked a place for Liverpool in the Quarter finals of Capital One Cup.
Alberto Moreno
Although Brendan Rodgers has tried and tested 6 formations this season, Alberto Moreno has been one of the few players who is a constant member of all of them. He will start in the left wing role.
Jordan Ibe
Although Merseyside derbys are known for their fierce rivalry, Brendan Rodgers seem to have a knack of trying youngsters in the match. Ibe is the latest Liverpool player that has come out shining from that fixture, and if we look at his current performances, the Englishman is already termed as the next Raheem Sterling for the Reds.
Philippe Coutinho
Starting from the mid of January till date, Philippe Coutinho has started each of the 7 games that the Reds have managed in all competitions. As a result of this continuity, the form of Brazilian is looking a bit lack-lustre. However, due to the injuries of Raheem Sterling and Lazar Markovic, Brendan Rodgers might again turn towards the Brazilian to finalize his starting 11 against Besiktas.
Daniel Sturridge
Even though the Englishman has a knack of getting injured of late, his current form might force Brendan Rodgers to give him a nod ahead of Mario Balotelli. Daniel Sturridge has managed 2 goals in 3 fixtures since his return from the sidelines.
Liverpool FC vs Besiktas will be played on Thursday, 20th February, at 21:05 GMT [Match Centre]
UEFA Europa League: How Liverpool will lineup against Besiktas
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