The struggles for Brendan Rodgers and Liverpool continued with a 0-0 draw with West Brom last weekend. Despite dominating possession, the Reds were unable to create scoring opportunities and often looked lost with the ball. With a very winnable game against Hull City coming this week, Rodgers will be looking to create some momentum for next season with good performances in the last few matches.
Rodgers has tinkered with both the lineup and the formation the last couple of weeks, but he will likely return to one that has brought the team success, either a 3-4-2-1 or a 4-3-3.
Goalkeeper
Simon Mignolet should be able to get another clean sheet against a weak Hull City attack. Despite that, he will have to stay vigilant since Hull have proven that they can score goals when faced with a tough opponent, they scored 2 goals against Chelsea a few weeks ago.
Right Back
With a move to right back, Emre Can has had to adjust to yet another unfamiliar role. While he does fit the position in that he can maraud forward when the team has possession, he can get caught out of position when they lose the ball.
Center Backs
The duo of Martin Skrtel and Dejan Lovren were able to handle the West Brom attack and they should do the same against Hull. While they aren’t the fastest defenders out there, they do read the game very well and are able to find the best way to get the ball back.
Left Back
Alberto Moreno should return to the lineup after Glen Johnson played in the last match. The Reds should have the ball a lot against Hull and that will allow Moreno to get up the field. While he hasn’t excelled in his first year with the team, he should improve next season where he should be settled more.
Center Midfield
While Jordan Henderson and Steven Gerrard passed well in the last match, they never found the hole that could lead to a goal. Gerrard will likely be rested for the upcoming match and that could allow Lucas Leiva and Joe Allen to return in the lineup.
Right Wing
Jordon Ibe could not influence the match significantly during his time on the field. He has not been the same ever since he returned from his injury but he will be looking to change that against a weak Hull defense that has allowed 45 goals this season.
Forward
Raheem Sterling should return to being the lead striker after Daniel Sturridge’s injury and Mario Balotelli failing to impress in the last match. His speed should pose a problem for the Hull defenders and he should create opportunities with Ibe and Coutinho. Once again, he will have to focus on the match rather than his ongoing contract negotiations.
Left Wing
Philippe Coutinho was active as usual but could not find that final ball that would open up the scoring. His inclusion to the PFA Team of the Year is a testament to his importance to the team and the midfielders should try to get the ball to him as much as possible.
