Liverpool's Predicted XI vs Fulham as Arne Slot Forced to Bench 'Amazing' Player

Ahead of Liverpool's Premier League clash against Fulham at Craven Cottage on Sunday, January 4, 2026, manager Arne Slot faces a tough selection dilemma due to an injury admission forcing him to bench an 'amazing' player.[1]

The Reds aim to rebound from a disappointing start to the year, with Fulham posing a genuine threat at home. Liverpool's predicted lineup adopts a 4-2-3-1 formation: Alisson Becker in goal; Conor Bradley at right-back, Ibrahima Konaté and Virgil van Dijk as the central defensive partnership, and Milos Kerkez at left-back; Ryan Gravenberch and Curtis Jones anchoring midfield; Dominik Szoboszlai, Alexis Mac Allister, and Cody Gakpo in advanced roles; with Hugo Ekitike leading the attack.[1][2]

The key change stems from an injury concern, sidelining a star performer described as 'amazing' by Slot. While specifics on the player aren't detailed, defensive depth issues are evident—Joe Gomez isn't fully fit, leaving Konaté and Van Dijk as the only reliable center-backs. This forces reliance on the current pairing despite limited options.[2]

Midfield sees Gravenberch and Jones as deep-lying playmakers, with Mac Allister pushed forward amid a form dip this season. Slot hopes for a turnaround from the Argentine. Up top, Gakpo's versatility and Ekitike's finishing are expected to exploit Fulham's vulnerabilities.[1][2]

Fulham's predicted 4-2-3-1 counters with Bernd Leno in goal, Timothy Castagne, Joachim Andersen, Jorge Cuenca, and Antonee Robinson in defense; Sasa Lukic and Sander Berge in midfield; Harry Wilson, Emile Smith Rowe, and others supporting Raul Jimenez. Fulham average 1.7 goals per game, with Wilson topping scorers on 4 goals.[1]

Betting previews favor over 2.5 goals, anticipating a high-scoring affair given both teams' attacking stats. Liverpool must navigate Fulham's solid home form—6 wins in 10—to secure vital points.[1][3]

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