Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp on the touchline (Getty Images)
The group stages of the Champions League will get underway on Tuesday and matchday one will witness one of the most enthralling battles as Liverpool host Paris Saint-Germain at Anfield.
Liverpool have made a wonderful start to their Premier League campaign with five wins out of five, a feat that they have achieved only for the third time in their history.
Last season, Jurgen Klopp inspired the Reds to their first final in the Champions League since 2004/05 as Liverpool once again announced themselves as a force to reckon with in Europe. The Reds did not have the pressure of expectations last time around but given their stellar run, fans across the continent have every reason to hope for a repeat of last season’s heroics.
However, from a realistic point of view, getting beyond the hurdle of the group stages is going to be an uphill battle for Klopp’s side. Liverpool have been drawn along with PSG, Napoli and Red Star Belgrade in Group C, which is essentially the group of death.
Nevertheless, Liverpool should take heart from the fact that they will kick off their Champions League campaign at home and the Reds should aim to pick up all three points.
Roberto Firmino suffered an eye injury following his clash with Jan Vertonghen and is doubtful for Tuesday’s game (h/t Liverpool’s official website). Meanwhile, Adam Lallana and Dejan Lovren continue to nurse groin and pelvis injuries respectively.
Alisson (GK)
The Brazilian has looked solid between the sticks and has only conceded two goals in the Premier League so far. He should retain his position in the line-up.
Trent Alexander-Arnold (RB)
The youngster has looked defensively solid and has been impressive with his movement up and down the pitch. Hence, Klopp must continue with him in the Champions League.
Joe Gomez (CB)
The youngster has effectively cemented his place in the line-up in Dejan Lovren’s absence and has caught the eye with some impressive performances. His composure levels have improved and Klopp should hand him a start.
Virgil van Dijk (CB)
Liverpool’s defensive wall has looked rock-solid in the Premier League and the Dutchman holds the key to their success against PSG.
Andy Robertson (LB)
The Scotsman has established himself as one of the best left-backs in the Premier League with his ability to influence the game in either half of the pitch. Should start on Tuesday.
Naby Keita (LM)
The Guinean has been a key man for Liverpool since his arrival in the summer and has impressed with his surging runs forward. He should start ahead of Jordan Henderson.
Gini Wijnaldum (CM)
The Dutchman has been top-notch with his work rate, playing as a shield for the rearguard and moving forward to support the attackers. Klopp must continue with him in the upcoming game.
James Milner (RM)
The 32-year-old has been Liverpool’s unsung hero and has already contributed with a goal and two assists in the Premier League. He bagged eight assists in the Champions League last season and is once again expected to be the Reds’ key man in the midfield.
Mohamed Salah (RW)
The Egyptian has looked impressive in the Premier League and already has two goals to his name but he is yet to hit top gear. He is one of Liverpool’s automatic starters.
Sadio Mane (LW)
The man who scored Liverpool’s only goal in the Champions League final last year has hit the ground running in the Premier League with four goals. Must start on Tuesday.
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Daniel Sturridge (ST)
Roberto Firmino suffered an injury to his eye in the game against Tottenham Hotspur and Klopp must go into Tuesday’s clash with Sturridge as the centre-forward.
