Liverpool projected Starting XI against Sparta Prague

The Reds have made the trip to Prague to meet the 13-time Czech champions Sparta Prague in the first leg of their Europa League Round of 16 tie.

Some big names have been included in Jurgen Klopp's squad for the trip abroad, none bigger than Mohamed Salah, who has been in a race against time to be fit for Sunday's monumental clash with Manchester City.

Young and exciting forward Jayden Danns did not make the trip as he is recovering form a concussion he suffered in the Nottingham Forest match at the weekend.

The Reds come into this match in good form as they have continued to find ways to win despite the litany of injuries and a loaded fixture list.

Whatever lineup that Klopp rolls out for this tie, Liverpool should be seen as the comfortable favorites, even playing in a tough environment.

I expect another healthy blend of youthful exuburance and veteran savvy in this one, as Liverpool keeps an eye on Sunday. They will look to get some minutes for key players like Salah and Dominik Szoboszlai, but I cannot see them getting a long runout.

Liverpool will be looking to get a couple of goals so as to set up a comfortable return leg at Anfield that would allow some rest heading into the FA Cup Quarterfinal showdown with Manchester United.

Without further ado, here is how I think the Reds will lineup for Thursday's Europa League tilt.

Goalkeeper: Caoimhin Kelleher

Defenders: Joe Gomez, Jarrell Quansah, Ibrahima Konate, Kostas Tsimikas

Midfielders: Alexis Mac Allister, Bobby Clark, Wataru Endo

Forwards: Luis Diaz, Darwin Nunez, Harvey Elliott

Probable Subs to be used: Salah, Szoboszlai, Gakpo, McConnell and Robertson.

That Starting XI should have plenty of firepower up-top and steel in the midfield to overcome Sparta Prague over the 90 minutes. It's not the cleanest defensive setup, but Konate has been in such good form that he should be able to keep things under control at the back.

Liverpool versus Sparta Prague will kickoff at 5:45pm GMT/11:45am CST.