Right Back: Joe Gomez
Jurgen Klopp thinks ahead. His rotation this season proves that he is not just aware of the next game up but the game after that and the one after that. I think Klopp will be thinking two games ahead with his selection at right back this week.
Liverpool are playing Manchester United next Saturday. To combat the giant men of Mourinho’s side, I am fully expecting Gomez to start at Old Trafford. But he has not had many minutes in recent weeks since a little injury kept him out for a game or two.
Now ordinarily I think Klopp would plump for Trent Alexander-Arnold to help break down a Newcastle side that we struggled to score against at St. James’ Park in October. But that would mean throwing Gomez in ‘cold’ against Man Utd. Gomez could play against Porto but I think anyone who will be starting against Man Utd – and can be easily rotated – will sit in midweek.
That means I think Klopp goes for Gomez this week with the ability to bring on Alexander-Arnold in the second half if Rafa Benitez’ men prove hard to wear down. I also wouldn’t rule out Nathaniel Clyne from the picture. I am expecting him to feature – likely from the bench – at some point in the next two games.