Liverpool: 5 players who must shine against Burnley

CB Nat Phillips

Burnley aren’t known for scoring many goals, but they do have one consistent source of goals in striker Chris Wood. He has found the back of the net 12 times this season and is someone who can challenge Liverpool aerially.

But the Reds have one young center back who is showing real fight and enough quality to be a part of the squad in the future. Nathaniel Phillips acquitted himself well against West Brom. He didn’t do much wrong defensively, made good interventions, and did his best to support the attack with smart passes and initiative when carrying the ball.

Phillips will need to be at his best against Wood in the penalty box, especially in the air. But he has what it takes to help Liverpool register a rare clean sheet.

CM Thiago Alcantara

Thiago Alcantara was masterful against West Brom, making smart passes and bringing his teammates into the game. He created a lot of chances, with WhoScored.com crediting the 30-year-old with five key passes.

The Spanish international could be vital again this Wednesday night at Turf Moor, as Burnley will sit back and force Liverpool to find spaces and create. Thiago’s quality on the ball and intelligent range of passing will be an asset against this type of team, and he can be the player his teammates play off of and benefit from in the chance-creation department.