Liverpool: Four tactical changes Klopp must make to beat Roma
By David Gate
No.4: Midfield Energy
Three things need to happen for Liverpool to do well in any given game: the defense needs to be error free; Roberto Firmino need to dictate the attack; and there needs to be energy in the midfield.
Track all the best performances this season and they coincide with every time the midfield trio has been energetic and forceful. There are two players in particular that can bring that level of buzzing intensity to the central areas.
Jordan Henderson is crucial, whether you like it or not. The words ‘bang average’ are often used of the captain but I cannot understand those who take that position. He has been a big game player for the Reds, often giving his best displays against the better teams. His energy and box-to-box attitude will be essential to take control of the midfield.
The other ingredient to the midfield combo is Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain. Since Philippe Coutinho he is the only midfielder who can drive forward with the ball at his feet and put defenders on their heels.
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Henderson and Oxlade-Chamberlain need to start. It doesn’t really matter if it is Gini Wijnaldum or James Milner next to them. Though I am sure the manager will plump for Milner with his excellent form in Europe this year.