Modric Out, Benzema Starts: Predicted Real Madrid Starting XI To Face Liverpool

The European champions are in town as Real Madrid take on Liverpool at Anfield on Wednesday night. Here is the side we think Carlo Ancelotti will put out:

Goalkeeper: Despite some questionable form for club and country in recent months, Iker Casillas finds himself back in favour at the Bernabeu and should start tomorrow night.

Defence: Sergio Ramos has not travelled to England as he continues to nurse a calf injury and with Barcelona up next, Ancelotti has decided not to risk him. Madrid will give a late fitness test to Raphael Varane but if he doesn’t make it then Nacho should partner Pepe at the back.

Alvaro Arbeloa could start against his former side but Fabio Coentrao has been ruled out through injury so Marcelo will start at left-back.

Midfield: Sami Khedira is back in full training but is still lacking in match practice so isn’t expected to start tomorrow. Ancelotti has favoured the Luka Modric-Toni Kroos pairing in midfield this season but he could bring in Asier Illarramendi to offer a more defensive approach against Liverpool.

Attack: Gareth Bale has been left back in Spain with a buttock injury so Isco is set to come in to start alongside James Rodriguez in attack. Karim Benzema is expected to shake off a knock to start up front with Cristiano Ronaldo in support.

Here is how we think Madrid will line-up tomorrow:

What do you think of the team? What side do you expect Ancelotti to pick?