Liverpool’s predicted Starting XI against Nottingham Forest

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Arne Slot’s side return from yet another international break preceded by a chastening defeat away from home.In October, it was Estevao’s dramatic stoppage time winner that sunk the Reds at Stamford Bridge, but this month they will have to shake off a 3-0 hammering from Manchester City.Liverpool’s starting line-up has never been under more scrutiny since the Dutchman arrived last year, although no Premier League side in history has had to live up to a £446 million transfer window.GoalkeeperAlissonFollowing a seven week spell on the sidelines due to a hamstring injury, Liverpool’s No. 1 is set for a return to action.This will undoubtedly come as a blow for Giorgi Mamardashvili, who has been sublime in Alisson’s absence, saving a penalty from Erling Haaland in his most recent game for the Reds.Liverpool v Everton - Premier League | Carl Recine/GettyImagesDefendersMilos KerkezSlot confirmed on Friday that Andy Robertson was unable to train, possibly still recovering from the euphoric highs that accompanied Scotland’s famous 4-2 victory over Denmark that secured qualification for their first World Cup finals since 1998.With Robertson unlikely to start, it serves as an opportunity for Kerkez to earn back his place in the starting lineup, after a poor start to the season confined him to the bench.Virgil van DijkThe skipper will want to extend the Reds’ clean sheet record when playing at home, having recently shut out both Aston Villa and Real Madrid.Ibrahima KonateThe Frenchman captained national team for the first time in a 3-1 victory against Azerbaijan, indicative of his leadership and is something he will look to revive as the centre back partnership aim to keep out Nottingham Forest.Liverpool FC v Real Madrid C.F. - UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD4 | Carl Recine/GettyImagesDominik SzoboszlaiAt right back, the situation goes from bad to worse for Liverpool fans, as Conor Bradley is set to miss at least five games due to a muscle injury picked up while on international duty representing Northern Ireland.

While Szoboszlai has proven himself more than capable in this position, there will be concerns among the Kop that their best player this season is once again missing from the midfield. MidfieldersRyan GravenberchAfter a poor game against Manchester City, the Dutchman will want to put things right against Forest and will feel refreshed after sitting out the Netherlands’ 4-0 win over Lithuania.Curtis JonesIt is likely that Jones will feature in Slot’s last minute midfield shake up, with his expert ball carrying and ability to get his side up the pitch.While Alexis Mac Allister has faltered at times in this position, Jones has looked assured and will relish a Premier League start at Anfield to make a statement.Liverpool FC v Real Madrid C.F. - UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD4 | Michael Regan/GettyImagesAlexis Mac AllisterAs Florian Wirtz appears to have suffered the same fate as Conor Bradley, Mac Allister will have to show his versatility against Sean Dyche’s side.Proficient as either a 6 or his favoured 8, the Argentine has also flourished as a No.

10, especially for the World Champions.Last season, Mac Allister set the tempo for Liverpool’s midfield and with the likely absence of Szoboszlai in the middle of the park, he will have to rely on his experience and skillset if the champions are to get back to winning ways.AttackersCody GakpoGakpo will undoubtedly occupy the left wing position for Arne Slot’s side and Liverpool fans will be anxious to see him translate his form for the Oranje at Anfield.Mohamed SalahThe Egyptian King has endured the worst start to a season since he signed for Liverpool and the pressure is mounting on him as the goals have dried up.Manchester City v Liverpool - Premier League | Robbie Jay Barratt - AMA/GettyImagesBut world class players don’t stay down for long and with two goals in his last three Premier League appearances, the Reds’ run of fixtures should give Salah the opportunity to flex his muscles.Hugo EkitikeLiverpool’s fan favourite enjoyed a special international break that saw him score his first goal for the French national team.Ekitike’s presence in this Liverpool side never goes unnoticed as the striker is always seen trying to make something happen and this rich vein of form will surely translate into more goals in the near future.