Midfielders – Emre Can, Jordan Henderson, Philippe Coutinho, Adam Lallana, Roberto Firmino
We expect Klopp to play the same midfield that he played against Leicester. Jordan Henderson was another player who put up a man of the match performance and he really proved his worth as the captain of the team. Emre Can too was good and tough. Lucas Leiva is an option, but we expect Klopp to continue with Emre Can.
Coutinho has not been able to contribute much to his team recently, but we cannot just write him off. His form is on the rise, which was evident on Saturday when he drove a very powerful shot on Leicester’s goal. Unfortunately, the shot was just high. Adam Lallana has not contributed much to Liverpool’s attack, but it looks like Klopp really loves him. His work rate has gone unnoticed. Even though he is not helping Liverpool to score, his presence has its own significance.
Roberto Firmino has received a lot of stick from the fans, but on Saturday he was great. It was a performance that the fans expect from him in every game. He provided the assist for Benteke’s goal and we expect him to start against Sunderland. Another good performance will help him gain confidence.
Striker – Christian Benteke
Benteke is the only senior striker who is available for Liverpool at the moment. Ings, Sturridge and Origi are all out due to injuries. Sturridge has declared himself fit, but Klopp said in his pre-Sunderland press conference that Sturridge needs more time before returning to the team. Benteke scored the winner against Leicester on Saturday and that will be a confidence booster for the Belgian.
He is expected to start against Sunderland considering Liverpool’s lack of options. Sunderland is a struggling side at the moment and Benteke should exploit their poor defence. Another goal against the Black Cats will be a huge confidence booster for the former Aston Villa man. He has scored a Hat-trick for Aston Villa against Sunderland before.
