Sturridge Out: Predicted Liverpool Starting XI To Face Everton

Photo: Mirror

Liverpool welcome Mersey rivals Everton to Anfield on Saturday lunchtime, here is the side we predict Brendan Rodgers will select:

Goalkeeper: There’s no reason to suggest anything other than Simon Mignolet will start this game in goal.

Defence: Jon Flanagan and Glen Johnson are still unavailable so Javier Manquillo is going to have to continue at right-back. The young Spaniard may be the only survivor of Tuesday’s back-four as Rodgers is likely to recall Alberto Moreno, Martin Skrtel and Dejan Lovren with Mamadou Sakho, Kolo Toure and Jose Enrique all dropping out.

Midfield: Skipper Steven Gerrard was given a well-earned rest for the midweek shootout win over Middlesbrough so he’s certain to come back in while Jordan Henderson is expected to be passed fit despite carrying a minor knock. Philippe Coutinho is also likely to pass a late fitness test so he could come in to start just in front of the English duo in midfield.

Attack: Rodgers has already confirmed that Raheem Sterling will be fit to start despite playing 120 minutes on Tuesday so he’s likely to join Adam Lallana in supporting Mario Balotelli in attack. Daniel Sturridge faces a late fitness test but is likely to be on the bench at best after three weeks out with a thigh injury.

So here’s how Rodgers could line-up his side this weekend:

What do you think of the team? What side would you select?