Liverpool Line-ups for Barnsley: Calvin Ramsay and Federico Chiesa Decisions Made

Liverpool are set to host Barnsley in the FA Cup third round at Anfield on Monday, January 12, 2026, with kick-off at 7:45 p.m. GMT. Manager Arne Slot faces injury challenges but has confirmed rotations, including starts for Calvin Ramsay at right-back and Federico Chiesa up front, amid several key absences.[1][2][3]

Liverpool Team News and Predicted Lineup

The Reds are plagued by injuries: Conor Bradley (season-ending knee), Alexander Isak (leg), Giovanni Leoni (knee), Stefan Bajčetić, Wataru Endo (knee), and Hugo Ekitiké (hamstring, potential return). Mohamed Salah is away at the Africa Cup of Nations with Egypt. Giorgi Mamardashvili replaces Alisson in goal for this cup tie.[1][2][3][4]

Slot's predicted 4-2-3-1 lineup: Mamardashvili; Ramsay, Gomez, Robertson (or Williams), Kerkez; Nyoni, Mac Allister (or Jones); Frimpong (or Gakpo), Jones (or Wirtz), Ngumoha; Chiesa. Youngster Rio Ngumoha is tipped for a start, with Curtis Jones anchoring midfield and talents like Trey Nyoni featuring. Ramsay steps in due to Bradley's absence, while Chiesa leads the attack in a fluid front line.[1][2][3][5]

Barnsley Team News and Predicted Lineup

Barnsley, managed by Michael Hourihane, miss captain Luca Connell through suspension but have few other issues. They aim to balance ambition with squad preservation ahead of a relegation battle. Predicted 4-2-3-1: Cooper; Watson, De Gevigney, Shepherd, Earl; Phillips, Bland; Jaló, Kelly, McGoldrick; Keillor-Dunn.[1]

Match Context

Liverpool seek a return to form post-recent setbacks, with fans eyeing cup progression. No VAR in use; referee Farai Hallam officiates. Historical upsets loom, but the Reds' depth should prevail despite woes.[1][6]

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