Jurgen Klopp faces major decision from Fabinho as overhaul ahead expected



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Liverpool dug to new depths with a record-breaking home loss to Fulham on Sunday.

Mario Lemina’s goal was enough to force the Reds to a sixth straight loss at Anfield with a 1-0 loss to Londoners.

The Champions now have a quick turnaround as they prepare for the Champions League round of 16 second leg against RB Leipzig in Budapest on Wednesday.

And here we turn to the changes Jurgen Klopp could make when his team are next in action.

The Fabinho question

A defensive overhaul couldn’t stop the Reds from moving on to another setback this weekend.

There will be at least one change on Wednesday, with Trent Alexander-Arnold set to replace Neco Williams at right-back.

Andy Robertson is expected to stay ahead of Kostas Tsimikas in the other full-back position, with Alisson Becker between the sticks.

The plot, as always, comes from the central defender.

Fabinho is expected to return to the starting lineup, but whether he is in defense may depend on Ozan Kabak’s ability.

Nat Phillips, who has played in three of the last four games, is pushing for another start, with Rhys Williams, who teamed with Phillips against Fulham another option.

Thiago or not?

With Liverpool 2-0 ahead in the first leg, Klopp probably won’t do anything too drastic in terms of training, with a subtle move to 4-2-3-1 the only possible change.

Much will depend on whether Fabinho is reintroduced to midfield. Otherwise, Gini Wijnaldum will likely continue in the number six role.



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Naby Keita did well against Fulham and will be eager to start against his former team, although James Milner is tired in the second half after his first start in weeks.

Thiago Alcantara and Curtis Jones, who have played regularly until the weekend, will push for a recall after playing in the first leg.

Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain may have to settle for a role from the bench.

Revision before

Klopp awaits the availability of Roberto Firmino, who missed Fulham with a minor blow.

If he is available, however, it is almost certain that Firmino will be called up with Sadio Mane to join Mohamed Salah in the regular attacking triumvirate, with Diogo Jota back on the bench.

Xherdan Shaqiri didn’t shine too much on a rare start to the weekend, while Divock Origi slipped down the pecking order somewhat.

However, the fact that five substitutes are allowed in Europe could open up the possibility for a number of fringe players to show up at some point.



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