Liverpool lineup vs Leipzig: Thiago, Firmino dropped, Kabak back

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Georginio Wijnaldum, Liverpool (Photo by Paul Ellis – Pool/Getty Images) /

CM – Georginio Wijnaldum

The Dutch international will undoubtedly start and will be expected to work hard on the pitch, aiding his team both defensively and offensively. Given that James Milner did not train, there’s a good chance of him missing out.

Hence, Wijnaldum will be donning the captain’s armband in a Champions League match for the first time in his Liverpool career.

CM – Naby Keita

The Guinean midfielder was back in the starting XI against Fulham and while he didn’t have the best outing, it could be enough to see him start on Thursday. Keita will be up against his former club and will be looking to put in a solid performance in the middle of the park.

This is a period where the 26-year-old can become a key player for Liverpool and show that he was worth the price the club paid for him.

CM – Curtis Jones

The final midfield spot is a tricky one but in the end, Jones gets the nod ahead of Thiago. The youngster was an unused sub against Fulham but he’ll be back in the playing XI on Thursday. Jones provided the assist for Mane’s goal in the first leg and he’ll be looking to put in a good performance in midfield. However, there’s still a chance Klopp could pick Thiago ahead of the 20-year-old.