The pre-season of Liverpool and manager Brendan Rodgers has gone great so far. Even though the opposition isn’t the strongest, being undefeated in three straight games will always boost the confidence of any team.
This upcoming match against the Malaysian XI could be one of the easiest in the schedule since many of the best players in the Malaysian Super League will not be present. Rodgers will likely stick with the 4-3-3 formation that got a 2-0 victory against Adelaide United FC.
Goalkeeper
Simon Mignolet will likely start but Adam Bogdan could see some action in the near future. This should be another easy match for Mignolet to get through given that the opponents will be weaker than expected.
Right-Back
Nathaniel Clyne still hasn’t had a fantastic game this pre-season but that is to be expected, he is still adjusting to a new club. With no immediate threat to his spot on the team, Clyne should be able to relax and play his usual game. However, if Rodgers wants to rest Clyne, Andre Wisdom is available.
Center-Backs
Martin Skrtel may be rested for this match but if he starts, he and Mamadou Sakho should be able to keep a clean sheet. Dejan Lovren started the last match but Sakho could see some time if Rodgers decides to try a different combination.
Left-Back
The 18-year-old Joe Gomez has been one of the club’s best players in this tour and Rodgers might reward his efforts with yet another start. Alberto Moreno didn’t inspire a lot of confidence with his form last season and Gomez might just take his spot on the team sheet if he continues to play like a veteran.
Midfield
Rodgers may decide to start a strong midfield of Jordan Henderson, Lucas Leiva and James Milner but a young player like Jordan Rossiter may also see some time to help him develop. The midfielder ended last season with a bad ankle injury but he impressed during his debut against Middlesbrough.
Right Wing
Jordon Ibe is another young player who has player well the past few games. Even with multiple attacking options added to the squad this summer, Ibe has proven that he should still be a consistent starter for the Reds next season. Sheyi Ojo is another young but talented winger who may get some minutes.
Forward
If Danny ings starts, he will be hard pressed to impress, given that the team just signed Christian Benteke. While he isn’t the tallest player, Ings is still an aerial threat who will take advantage of any cross that enters the box. Rodgers may also choose to see Divock Origi bag some goals against weak opposition.
Left Wing
Lazar Markovic didn’t play his best for most of last season but his strong work-rate and intelligent play out on the wing should trouble the Malaysian defense. Joao Teixeria and Adam Lallana are the other candidates for the position.
(4-3-2-1)
Via – Lineup Builder
