Liverpool have started their Premier League campaign on a high with two wins and a draw from their first three matches. Brendan Rodgers’ side have beaten Stoke City and Bournemouth so far this season before holding Arsenal to a draw at the Emirates on Monday.
The Reds are yet to concede a goal this season and this a huge improvement from last season when their defence came in for heavy criticism.
West Ham, on the other hand, have been brought back to earth after back-to-back defeats at the hands of Leicester City and Bournemouth after they stole 3 points away from the Emirates on the first week of the season. The Hammers are without the presence of first team regulars like Andy Carroll and the suspended Adrian and Carl Jenkinson, along with the likes of Enner Valencia and Maurp Zarate.
Daniel Sturridge and Jon Flanagan are still injured but Adam Lallana could return after recovering from a knock.
Let’s take a look at the Liverpool lineup that could take the field against West Ham.
Goalkeeper – Simon Mignolet
The Belgian has been in fine form this campaign after coming under a lot of criticism for his sloppy goalkeeping in the previous campaign.
Defence – Clyne, Skrtel, Lovren, Gomez.
Joseph Gomez has impressed in his first three games for the Reds and should continue in a back four that has not leaked a goal so far this season. Nathaniel Clyne has added stability and impetus down the right-hand side for the Reds and Dejan Lovren finally looks a Liverpool player after his early struggles at the club.
Midfield – Emre Can, Lucas Leiva, Milner, Coutinho, Firmino.
James Milner has been immense for the Reds in the middle of the park, chipping in with his work rate and passing awareness to help Liverpool control the midfield.
Coutinho scored a screamer against Stoke City on the opening weekend but will be looking to have more of an impact against a struggling West Ham side.
Firmino should start on the left-hand side where his pace and ability will come into play.
Striker – Benteke
Big-money summer signing Christian Benteke has already opened his account for the Reds, but the Belgian front man will be hoping for better service from his midfielders.