The Liverpool lineup that should start against Burnley

Liverpool welcome Burnley to Anfield on Thursday night as they look to win for the first time in five Premier League games.

Jurgen Klopp’s side have been in a bit of a rut since their 7-0 rout of Crystal Palace. The goals have dried up since that day, as the Reds have found the net only once in their subsequent league games – Sadio Mane’s strike coming in a 1-1 draw against West Brom.

Burnley represent tough opposition; Sean Dyche’s side arrive at Anfield boasting the best defence in the bottom nine of the league, conceding 22 goals in 17 games. The Clarets are involved in a relegation battle and will surely rely on their defensive attributes to secure a result against the champions.

So, breaking them down will be the key for a Liverpool side struggling creatively. Here’s the lineup that should start to do just that.

Alisson (GK) – Not too tough to predict who’ll be featuring between the sticks. Alisson made two decent saves against Manchester United last time out, and will be looking for his sixth clean sheet of the season on Thursday.

Trent Alexander-Arnold (RB) – The full-back has really struggled to replicate his creative impact of previous seasons, providing just two assists so far. But, he remains a starter for Klopp’s side.

Joel Matip (CB) – Missed the United game as Klopp was not willing to risk him. However, the Cameroonian will likely come back in for this one.

Fabinho (CB) – The Brazilian has been excellent as a makeshift centre-back this season, and will continue at the back while both Virgil Van Dijk and Joe Gomez are out.

Andy Robertson (LB) – Has fared better than his colleague on the other side of defence in the assist department, racking up five, but will still not be satisfied. He will continue to be Klopp’s number one choice at left-back, though.

Thiago (CM) – The Spaniard made his Anfield debut last time out and could find more joy on Thursday with Jordan Henderson filling the sitting role, allowing him to distribute the ball in advanced positions. His vison could be key for the Reds.

Jordan Henderson (CM) – The club captain will likely come back into midfield after being used in defence against United. He’ll hope to influence the game and make his side tick again.

Georginio Wijnaldum (CM) – The Dutchman has been a regular feature for Klopp’s side, featuring in all 18 league games so far, and will likely start this one.

Mohamed Salah (RW) – Hasn’t scored in four Premier League games and will be desperate to end his drought to finally move on to 14 goals for the season.

Roberto Firmino (ST) – Another player who has found it tough to get into games recently. The Brazilian hasn’t been up to scratch of late but, with Diogo Jota still out, looks the likely option up front.

Sadio Mane (LW) – The only Liverpool player to score in their last four league games and always a tireless worker. Mane is a guaranteed starter on the left of their front three.