Liverpool Team News: Six Key Men To Miss Bordeaux Clash

Liverpool will field a weakened side against Bordeaux in their opening Europa League group game after Brendan Rodgers left six key players back in Merseyside, according to the Liverpool Echo.

The squad flew out to France this afternoon ahead of Thursday night’s visit to the Nouveau Stade de Bordeaux and Christian Benteke, James Milner, Lucas Leiva, Dejan Lovren, Nathaniel Clyne and Martin Skrtel have all been left behind.

The sexet have all been rested ahead of Sunday’s Premier League clash with Norwich City at Anfield as Rodger’s looks to address an alarming run of form that’s seen his side take just one point from their last three league games.

However, the Northern Irishman has opted to take Philippe Coutinho with him to France after the Brazilian missed Saturday’s 3-1 defeat to Manchester United through suspension so he’s expected to start tomorrow.

Adam Lallana could also feature after returning to full training following a thigh injury while Alberto Moreno is likely to start at left-back with Joe Gomez possibly moving to right-back.

Mamadou Sakho and Kolo Toure could also get run-outs in defence but Jordan Henderson remains out after undergoing treatment on his troublesome heel injury in the United States yesterday.

With so many first team regulars unavailable, youngster Jordan Rossiter could get a rare start in midfield while Divock Origi may make his full debut up front.

Youngsters Connor Randall, Cameron Brannagan and Dan Cleary have all travelled to France and will be hoping to make their senior debuts at some point tomorrow.

Some may say that Rodgers is taking a gamble leaving so many of his key men behind but I think it’s clear he’s stating his priority is the Premier League over the Europa League this season, and few could argue with that stance.

Getting back in the top four to qualify for the Champions League should be Liverpool’s main aim this season with the Europa League used to give the fringe players and youngster a run-out.