Confirmed Liverpool Lineup vs Burnley: Curtis Jones Starts; Mac Allister Benched

Liverpool FC has announced its starting lineup for the Premier League clash against Burnley at Anfield on January 17, 2026, making six changes from the midweek cup win over Barnsley. Manager Arne Slot opts for a strong 4-2-3-1 formation, benching key midfielder Alexis Mac Allister in favor of Curtis Jones starting in central midfield alongside Ryan Gravenberch.[1][8]

In goal, Alisson Becker returns between the posts, supported by a solid backline of Jeremie Frimpong at right-back, Ibrahima Konaté and Virgil van Dijk in central defense, and summer signing Milos Kerkez at left-back. The defensive unit remains largely unchanged, with Konaté and Van Dijk as the first-choice pairing despite long-term absentees Alexander Isak, Conor Bradley, and Giovanni Leoni.[1][2][8]

Midfield sees Curtis Jones handed a start after impressing recently, partnering Gravenberch for dynamism and control. Mac Allister drops to the bench following his cup appearance. Up top, the attacking trio features Dominik Szoboszlai on the right, playmaker Florian Wirtz in the number 10 role, Cody Gakpo on the left, and Hugo Ekitiké leading the line as the focal point.[1][2][8]

Mohamed Salah remains unavailable due to international duty with Egypt at the Africa Cup of Nations, expected back next week. Recent performers like Chiesa and youngster Rio Ngumoha drop out after the Barnsley match.[1]

Burnley, struggling in the relegation zone with 13 points from 21 games, arrive without several key players including Zian Flemming, Josh Cullen, and others due to injury. Their predicted 3-4-2-1 features Martin Dúbravka in goal and Armando Broja up front.[2][4]

Liverpool aim to build on their 10-5-6 record (35 points) and capitalize on home advantage against a depleted Burnley side.[4]