Liverpool have started the season like everyone expected them to, with back-to-back wins in the league. The defending Premier League champions have their biggest test yet on Monday, when they play Arsenal at Anfield.
Liverpool fielded their B team in the Carabao Cup last night. Virgil van Dijk was their only first-choice star in the team against Lincoln and it’s very likely he will start again on Monday against the Gunners.
The Dutchman could have some good news coming his way too. His partner at the back, Joe Gomez, could be in contention for a return after missing the game against Chelsea last weekend.
Klopp told Liverpool Echo: “Joe (Gomez) should be back today in training – that’s what everyone has told me. Billy The Kid is back in training. Joel not. Hendo not yet, this game is for sure too early.”
That’s a huge boost for the Reds ahead of the big game on Monday. Fabinho has had to fill in next to van Dijk at the back and, as well as he’s done, his presence in the centre of the park is more important.
Gomez‘s possible return is good news but Liverpool will still have two players out injured. Skipper Jordan Henderson is expected to miss out after playing the first two league games, while Joel Matip’s frustrating time on the sidelines is set to continue.
Liverpool have a sensational record against Arsenal at Anfield in the past few years. The Reds haven’t lost a game at home to the Gunners since 2012, a record they’ll look to extend when they host Mikel Arteta’s side on Monday.
Gomez’s pace and van Dijk’s all-round brilliance will be key to stopping Arsenal’s counter-attacks. The Dutchman will also look to redeem himself after his mistake won the Gunners the game when the two sides met at the Emirates last season.
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