Liverpool Predicted XI vs Leeds – 1 Man Dropped as Dominik Szoboszlai Returns

Liverpool gear up for a crucial Premier League clash against Leeds United at Anfield on Thursday evening, aiming to build on recent form under manager Arne Slot. The Reds drew 3-3 in their earlier meeting at Elland Road this month, squandering a two-goal lead due to defensive lapses, but now seek all three points at home.[2]

Predicted Lineup (4-2-3-1)

The spotlight falls on Dominik Szoboszlai's return to the starting XI, boosting midfield creativity after injury. One key change sees Federico Chiesa dropped to the bench, with Conor Bradley potentially slotting in at right-back or midfield for added dynamism.[2] A detailed projection includes:

• GK: Alisson Becker – Reliable last line, part of 3 clean sheets this season.[1]
• Defense: Jeremie Frimpong, Ibrahima Konate, Virgil van Dijk, Milos Kerkez – Solid backline led by Van Dijk.[1]
• Midfield: Ryan Gravenberch, Dominik Szoboszlai/Curtis Jones, Alexis Mac Allister – Gravenberch anchors, with Szoboszlai's energy key.[1][2]
• Attack: Federico Chiesa (bench), Florian Wirtz, Mohamed Salah, Hugo Ekitike – Ekitike leads scoring with 5-8 goals, Salah adds 2-4 goals and assists.[1]

Team Form & Stats

Liverpool sit strong in the table, averaging 1.6 goals per game from 60.4% possession and 14.8 shots. They've won 5, lost 3, drawn 2 in recent outings, conceding 1.5 goals on average. Top performers: Hugo Ekitike (5-8 goals), Cody Gakpo (4 goals, 3 assists), Mohamed Salah (4 goals, 3 assists).[1]

Leeds counter in 3-5-2: Lucas Perri (GK); Bornauw, Bijol, Struijk; Bogle, Aaronson, Ampadu, Stach, Gudmundsson; Calvert-Lewin, Okafor.[1] Liverpool dominate possession in most matches and are favored for victory.[1][3]

Slot's side eyes a statement win to climb the standings, leveraging Anfield's atmosphere against a resilient Leeds.[2]

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