Liverpool’s projected lineup vs. Sunderland as clarity emerges over Mohamed Salah’s status
Key players return while Slot makes two alterations | Predicted Liverpool XI for Sunderland clash
Liverpool’s squad is expected to feature several notable changes as they prepare to face Sunderland in Wednesday’s Premier League match at Anfield (20:15 GMT).
The Reds are eager to prove they have moved on from their recent poor run of form. After nine defeats in their last 12 games across all competitions — including six losses in seven league fixtures — many believe their hopes of retaining the Premier League title have all but vanished. Liverpool now trail leaders Arsenal by nine points, a deficit that could be too large to overcome.
But the title picture is of little concern to Arne Slot at this stage. His focus is firmly on taking each game as it comes, attempting to reinforce the idea that he is the right man to lead the club. A string of disappointing results has put additional scrutiny on his position.
Liverpool steadied themselves with a 2–0 win at West Ham last time out, but they will need to show far more consistency to prove they have truly turned a corner. They now face a stern test against a Sunderland side that has impressed many observers since earning promotion.
Ahead of the match, here is how Liverpool are expected to line up:
GK – Alisson Becker
He was largely untested against West Ham, but the Brazilian will anticipate a much busier evening this time.
RB – Curtis Jones
Although many supporters would prefer Joe Gomez to keep his place after an outstanding performance at West Ham, Slot may opt to rest him with two away games coming up. With Conor Bradley and Jeremie Frimpong still sidelined, Jones could be asked to fill in.
CB – Ibrahima Konaté
Delivered an improved display against West Ham and will aim to build on it with a more consistent run.
CB – Virgil van Dijk
Will have been pleased that West Ham failed to register a shot on target. He’ll expect a similar level of discipline from the back line.
LB – Andy Robertson
Milos Kerkez was forced off with cramp after featuring in three games in eight days, so it would be no surprise to see Robertson return to the starting XI.
CM – Ryan Gravenberch
Looked more like himself against the Hammers. Few midfielders in the league can match Gravenberch when he’s at full throttle.
CM – Dominik Szoboszlai
Once again operated out of position on the right side of midfield. He may be restored to his preferred wide role.
RW – Mohamed Salah
The biggest pre-match question is whether Salah returns to the starting side. Playing at Anfield may give Slot the confidence to select him, even if he contributes less defensively. Salah will be eager to make a statement if he features.
AM – Florian Wirtz
Produced his best performance since arriving from West Ham in the summer. The £100m signing now needs to build momentum.
LW – Cody Gakpo
Scored and assisted in the previous match. Although inconsistent at times, Gakpo regularly provides decisive moments.
ST – Hugo Ekitike
Slot may consider keeping Isak in the lineup after he opened his Premier League account, but the £125m record signing suffered cramp the day after the West Ham match, so Liverpool may take a cautious approach.
Substitutes
Mamardashvili, Gomez, Kerkez, Endo, Mac Allister, …
