Liverpool were going all guns blazing, having made the best-ever start to their Premier League campaign with six wins on the trot. However, their perfect record was halted by Chelsea as the Blues held them to a 1-1 draw last weekend.
After a brilliant start to the season, Jurgen Klopp’s men have just put the foot off the pedal with two losses and a draw in their last three games across all competitions. Liverpool arguably endured their worst game of the season in the 1-0 defeat at the hands of Napoli on matchday two of the Champions League. It would be fair to say that they lacked the intent and the hunger to pick up all three points.
And the pressure will be on Jurgen Klopp to inspire his side when they welcome the reigning Premier League champions Manchester City on Sunday. Having drawn the last game against Chelsea, this will be a good opportunity for the Reds to reclaim their position at the top of the table and this could be one of the games that go on to decide the fate of the Premier League this season.
Naby Keita left the field with an injury to his lower back in the last game and Klopp will be without the services of his summer signing. Adam Lallana is on his way to recovery and his presence in the matchday squad will be subject to a late fitness test.
The Brazilian made some fantastic one-on-one saves against Chelsea and Napoli and Klopp should persist with him between the sticks.
The youngster had a bad day at the office in the Champions League but will play a key role against Manchester City.
The towering Dutchman was his usual reliable self in the heart of the defence in the previous game and will face another uphill task against the City attackers.
The youngster was one of the brightest sparks in the 1-0 defeat to Napoli and Klopp should be expecting another solid performance from him.
The Scotsman did not have the best of games in the Champions League but could play a big part on Sunday.
The Dutchman has excelled in a deeper role in the midfield but the presence of Henderson should allow him to play more freely.
He will be the ideal man to replace Naby Keita in the line-up and his good range of passing could prove to be vital against City.
The veteran has been consistent throughout but had a poor day at the office against Napoli. Klopp will need him to come to the party on Sunday against City.
The Egyptian wizard hasn’t been able to replicate the prolific form he showed last season but should retain his place in a high-voltage game.
Liverpool will need his pace and energy down the left to create chances and link up with the other two in the forward line. He has been in good scoring form this season and he must deliver the goods on Sunday.
The Brazilian worked hard in front of the goal against Napoli but was left to feed off scraps. However, Liverpool will need him to fire against City.