Liverpool vs Atletico: Jurgen Klopp makes two massive selection calls

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has made two massive selection calls for the Champions League game against Atletico Madrid.

The German has decided to ditch the out-of-form Fabinho and bring Jordan Henderson back into the fold, just a few days after being cryptic about whether or not the skipper would be included.

As well as that, Klopp has decided to go with Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain instead of James Milner in a huge deceleration that Liverpool will attack Atletico Madrid from the off.

Milner would have been a safe option, especially with Fabinho left out of the side, but Oxlade-Chamberlain provides something a little bit more from the engine room. His ability to break the lines, provide a threat from distance and link with Roberto Firmino could be crucial in deciding the outcome of the game.

But Liverpool will miss the leadership of Milner, who put in an outstanding performance against Bournemouth on Saturday.

Starting Milly and putting Henderson on the bench would have been the safe option. Hendo hasn’t played since coming off with a hamstring injury against Atletico in the first leg, and while he may have trained well that can never replicate the intensity and sheer lung-sucking brutality of a Champions League game.

Fabinho can make the difference when he’s on form and this decision shows us Klopp’s ruthless side for a must-win game. The Brazilian has been poor since he came back into the side, and it appears as if arguments to say he needs more minutes to establish a rythmn have fallen on deaf German ears.

Liverpool need to play fast, attacking and vibrant football that excites a sold out Anfield. They need the power of the stadium behind them. With Jordan Henderson back, barking orders, and the forward minded Oxlade-Chamberlain ready to raid Madrid defences, the Reds have an excellent chance.

Klopp has made two massive calls tonight, but hopefully history will show that they have been good ones.