Predicted Liverpool XI to play FC Basel – Coutinho to return

Follow us on Google Discover

How Liverpool’s side might look for the game against FC Basel.

Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers will want to see more from his team as they head off to play FC Basel in the Champions League.

The Reds got their European campaign off to a winning start against Ludogorets but the performance was unconvincing and Liverpool will be fully tested by a very experienced European side.

We’ve attempted to name their starting side for the game.

GK – Simon Mignolet

The Belgian is the club’s obvious number one and he’ll start when he’s available.

RB – Javier Manquillo

Learning all the time as he plays more games for the club. It’s important he stays tight and solid defensively.

CB – Martin Skrtel

One of the best ‘no nonsense’ defenders there is. He’ll be important when the side is under pressure.

CB – Dejan Lovren

The Croatian has been an ever present in the Liverpool back four throughout the season.

LB – Alberto Moreno

Moreno has been tested thoroughly in the Premier League but he’s fitter and sharper than the Spaniard who first stepped into the team.

RM – Raheem Sterling

Sterling’s pace on the counter attack will be a big weapon for the Reds in this game. He can also drift into central positions and change wings.

CM – Jordan Henderson

Henderson has to play because he can fill in all over the midfield, dropping back and pushing forward when the side is on top.

CM – Steven Gerrard

Gerrard hasn’t had much time to recover from the Everton game but he starts because of his experience and proven quality.

AM – Adam Lallana

Lallana is a good player to have pushed further forward in behind the striker. He’s also good enough to drop off into a deeper role.

LM – Philippe Coutinho

Coutinho offers protection of the ball because of his passing ability. He’s also extremely skilful in terms of the way he effortlessly rotates with players in other positions.

ST – Mario Balotelli

It’s time for Balotelli to step up and put in a big performance. He should relish any hostility from the crowd.