Liverpool predicted line-up vs Galatasaray as key man set to return, Slot makes Ngumoha call
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Liverpool IconLiverpool FC NewsFeaturesLiverpool FCThe Liverpool head coach must consider whether to harness Ngumoha's undeniable talents, or show more restraint in his selection process. The Reds also look set to make at least one change in defenseLiverpool predicted line-up to GalatasarayLiverpool head coach Arne Slot must consider the form and fitness of his squad when choosing his line-up to face Galatasaray on Wednesday, as well as the experience required for such a high-stakes game.The Reds host the Turkish champions in the second leg of their last-16 Champions League tie and must overturn a one-goal deficit from the reverse meeting in Istanbul last week.That disappointing result was compounded by the 1-1 draw at home to Tottenham on Sunday, which was met with boos at full-time.
A similar scenario will no doubt face Liverpool if it fails to progress at Anfield on Wednesday.READ MORE: Andy Robertson has fierce answer to contract question as he responds to unhappy fansREAD MORE: Andy Robertson shares Arne Slot's reaction to Liverpool's 'bump-in-road' seasonSlot will at least be boosted by the return of Ibrahima Konate for the second leg. The Dutchman revealed in his pre-match press conference that the center-back missed out against Spurs due to a minor hamstring injury, but has since regained full fitness.Joe Gomez’s possible absence due to a fresh knock reduces Slot’s options at right-back, with Sunday a reminder of how wasted Dominik Szoboszlai can be as part of a back four.
Jeremie Frimpong is the obvious solution.At left-back, Milos Kerkez will likely start in place of Andy Robertson, despite the Scotland captain being nominated to conduct the Reds’ pre-match media duties.Kerkez will probably return at left-back against GalatasarayIn midfield, Slot could hand Curtis Jones a rare starting berth, although he has become increasingly reluctant to turn to the academy graduate.Ryan Gravenberch and Alexis Mac Allister remain the most likely options to start in midfield.After being named on the bench at the weekend, Mohamed Salah and Hugo Ekitike look almost certain to return to the line-up against Galatasaray, with both on target in Liverpool’s last home Champions League match.Salah was introduced off the bench against Tottenham(Image: Liverpool FC/Liverpool FC via Getty Images)As was Florian Wirtz, who could come in on the left flank to face Galatasaray.That was the case in last week’s first leg, and selecting the German, who has often played in a no.10 role, could result in Cody Gakpo and Rio Ngumoha dropping out of the side.The latter was Liverpool’s standout performer against Spurs, but Slot will likely be wary of selecting the teenager in such a high-pressure situation.Liverpool predicted XI: Alisson; Frimpong, Konate, Van Dijk, Kerkez; Gravenberch, Mac Allister; Salah, Szoboszlai, Wirtz; Ekitike.Choose Liverpool.com as a 'Preferred Source' on Google News for quick access to the news you value.Liverpool FCChampions League