The Carabao Cup was the last trophy Jurgen Klopp lifted, and it could be the first one for new Liverpool manager Arne Slot.
Liverpool kick off their title defense in the third round of the competition, facing West Ham United – a team they defeated 5-1 on their way to victory last season. While Liverpool are expected to advance, a recent loss to Nottingham Forest serves as a reminder not to underestimate their opponents on Wednesday.
Rotation could pose a challenge for Liverpool, as Slot may need to rest some key players due to a busy schedule. Players like Mohamed Salah, Trent Alexander-Arnold, and Luis Diaz might be given a break for the upcoming match.
Here is the predicted lineup for Liverpool on Wednesday.
GK: Caoimhin Kelleher – With Alisson unavailable, Kelleher will be in goal for Liverpool. He is looking to secure a starting role elsewhere but will likely be the cup goalkeeper for Liverpool this season.
RB: Conor Bradley – Bradley may be a regular in the future if Alexander-Arnold’s future at Liverpool is uncertain. He has impressed since joining Anfield and is expected to continue under Slot’s management.
CB: Jarell Quansah – Quansah could feature against West Ham after being sidelined since the Premier League opener. He will face a tough challenge against Michail Antonio.
CB: Virgil van Dijk – Van Dijk may retain his place in the backline for continuity. Having Gomez as an option, Liverpool will need stability in defense.
LB: Kostas Tsimikas – Tsimikas offers an attacking threat but can be unreliable defensively. His performance will be crucial for Liverpool against West Ham.
DM: Wataru Endo – Endo may not be a favorite of Slot’s but could still play a role this season, especially in cup competitions. His future at Liverpool depends on his performances.
DM: Curtis Jones – Jones is set to start after recovering from injury. He will be looking to replicate his past success against West Ham in the Carabao Cup.
RM: Federico Chiesa – Chiesa is expected to make his first start for Liverpool against West Ham, providing an exciting opportunity for fans to see him in action.
AM: Dominik Szoboszlai – Szoboszlai has been in fine form and is likely to retain his spot in the lineup. His attacking prowess will be key for Liverpool against West Ham.
LM: Cody Gakpo – Gakpo has impressed since his debut and will be looking to continue his good form against West Ham.
ST: Diogo Jota – Jota will be eager to make an impact after being left out of the previous match. He will be looking to prove himself against West Ham.