Liverpool face a huge EFL Cup test against Tottenham, but both making changes and having a good run in the competition is in their interest.
Liverpool manager Juergen Klopp
With no European football this season, the domestic cup competitions probably take on more importance for Liverpool. That said, even with the Europa League to contend with last term, they made a good fist of the League Cup – losing out to Manchester City on penalties.
This season, Jurgen Klopp has a fairly big squad at his disposal given his side do not have European football on their schedule. A relatively settled Liverpool side has managed to get off to a good start to the Premier League season. 20 points from their opening nine games sees them setting the pace along with Arsenal and Manchester City in what could be one of the tightest title races in living memory.
But that means some challenges. Some players need some regular football. Divock Origi who seemingly came of age towards the end of last season has yet to start in the Premier League this term. The importance of the League Cup to him has been demonstrated already. Two starts, two goals – albeit both against Championship opposition.
Liverpool’s Divock Origi scores their third goal
Some footballers need some regular game time. Marko Grujic needs to get some experience under his belt, Danny Ings could do with some first team opportunities after impressing for the under-23’s while other players could do with blowing the cobwebs away.
One example in recent weeks is Emre Can. The German had sorely lacked match practice prior to his first 90 minutes since the Europa League final when he featured in the Reds’ 0-0 draw with Manchester United last Monday. It showed as there were misplaced passes and the game was passing him by at times.
He looked better for his appearance against United in the game that followed as his performance improved in the win over West Bromwich Albion on Saturday, which frankly should have seen him on the scoresheet – though his role in Sadio Mane’s opener should not go unnoticed.
Liverpool’s Emre Can in action
Simon Mignolet will want to show he’s worthy of reclaiming the starting spot in goal, Nathaniel Clyne needs a break, Alberto Moreno needs to show if he’s improved while James Milner has nailed down the left-back slot, and Liverpool have a host of central defensive options.
The League Cup is a good time to rotate, and Liverpool could still put out a strong side. But more than 14 or 15 players need games and to play themselves into some sort of rhythm if they are going to contribute effectively over the course of the season.
There are going to be times when injuries have an effect, and ideally you don’t want players that are so far out of match practice having to come into the side.
Not only should Liverpool be aiming for a good EFL Cup run to target the trophy itself, but in order to aid their ambitions in the Premier League as well.
Liverpool’s Adam Lallana walks past manager Juergen Klopp as he is substituted
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