What clues can we take from Liverpool’s under-23 side for tonight’s clash with Derby?

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Liverpool’s under-23 side beat Tottenham 6-2 last night, but can any clues be drawn from their side as to who may be part of the first team tonight?

Liverpool’s under-23 side may have impressed in their 6-2 win over Tottenham last night, but their line-up, as reported on the official Liverpool website, may offer some clues as to which players may get some game time for the first-team tonight, as Liverpool travel to the iPro Stadium to take on Derby County in the third round of the EFL Cup.

Given the lack of cover at right-back, some may have expected Trent Alexander-Arnold to be part of the first-team squad after an impressive pre-season – and the chances of seeing Ben Woodburn handed his senior bow are limited given he played the full game, along with Cameron Brannagan.

Names that were absent from the side include Ovie Ejaria – who impressed on the pre-season tour of the United States, and if Liverpool are to change things at right-back then Connor Randall could stake his claim to be the regular deputy for Nathaniel Clyne.

Danny Ings has featured fairly regularly for the under-23s at the start of this season as he tries to get some match fitness under his belt following his anterior cruciate ligament injury from last season.

Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp has suggested he will give the player an opportunity when he can while stressing there is competition for places, and Roberto Firmino returned to training following a slight groin issue that saw him miss Friday night’s win over Chelsea in the Premier League.

It seems that a strong side full of names familiar with first-team action will be sent out as Liverpool want to keep every route to silverware open. There will be changes with Loris Karius confirmed to make his debut in goal, while Emre Can has returned from an ankle injury.

But the main clues from the under-23 line-up should be Ejaria and Ings possibly getting some game time for the first team, while Kevin Stewart will have to wait for his first start of the season, and Woodburn and Alexander-Arnold will have to bide their time when it comes to getting their opportunity for the first-team.