Liverpool win the Premier League title for the first time in the modern era (Getty Images)
Champions Liverpool will start their title defence against Leeds United in the opening weekend of the Premier League when they welcome Marco Bielsa’s brigade to Anfield.
Jurgen Klopp’s Liverpool were near-invincible last season and won the title at a canter after no team could come close to them in the end as they finished 18 points above Man City in 2nd place. They did have some hiccups in the last few games as they incurred some unexpected losses but that couldn’t dent what was an absolutely dominant season.
Leeds United will be no pushovers though. Bielsa’s men were the winners of the EFL Championship last season and were a treat to watch. The manager is a shrewd tactician and Liverpool would be unwise to take this game lightly.
New signing Konstantinos Tsimikas is under quarantine after testing positive for COVID-19. Jordan Henderson is in a race against time to make the matchday squad and will be a doubtful inclusion. Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and Xherdan Shaqiri are also ruled out with injuries. Apart from them, there aren’t any notable absentees and a strong XI can be expected to line up.
One of the safest pairs of hands in football, Alisson will be hoping he doesn’t have a horror start like last season where he injured himself and had to miss the opening few weeks of the season.
Arguably the best right-back in the league right now, Alexander-Arnold is a sure starter when fit. He will be raring to go again after another great season.
Matip has been a reliable defender over the seasons and should be expected to get the nod ahead of Joe Gomez.
There is no question of Van Dijk not starting a game for Liverpool if he is fit and available. Arguably the best defender in the world, he has been a rock for the Reds in the last few seasons.
Robertson will be hoping to partner Arnold again as they are vital to how Liverpool press and provide width. On the left, it’ll be Robertson who will have to do that.
The big Brazilian can say that he’s the best defensive midfielder in the league right now and will likely be starting the game against Leeds.
Under different circumstances, Georginio Wijnaldum would have been an undisputed pick but with questions about his future, Keita should start in his place.
Chipping in for captain Jordan Henderson, Milner should lead Liverpool on Saturday in the latter’s absence.
Another season, another challenge for Salah. He will be hoping to post even better numbers this season though, starting with Leeds.
There is something about Firmino that makes him the most perfect fit in the team. His numbers may not be anything to write home about but the way he spearheads the team and presses from the front is something brilliant.
Another vital cog for Liverpool, Mane is an undisputed starter on the left wing. He possesses a tireless work rate and we can expect that to be on show again.
