Liverpool predicted lineup vs Sparta Prague - Europa League
- Liverpool face Sparta Prague in the Europa League on Thursday
- Jurgen Klopp has some big calls to make with his team selection
- A number of youngsters may get a run out in the Czech Republic
Liverpool's recent fixture list has been gruelling and the Reds find themselves back in action on Thursday night.
Jurgen Klopp's side will make the journey to the Czech Republic to face Sparta Prague in their Europa League last 16 first leg, a fixture that comes just three days before a gargantuan clash with Manchester City in the Premier League.
The Reds still have a mammoth injury list and will be eager to give some of their regular starters a rest before the weekend if possible, with Klopp facing one of his trickier team selections of the season.
Here is how Liverpool could line up against Sparta.
Liverpool predicted lineup vs Sparta Prague (4-3-3)
GK: Caoimhin Kelleher - With Alisson unlikely to return for the Reds until after the March international break, the Irish stopper is Liverpool's number one for the time being. He has been in incredible form in recent weeks and has kept three consecutive clean sheets.
RB: Joe Gomez - Having played the last two matches as a defensive midfielder, Gomez could return to one of his favoured positions on Thursday, with Conor Bradley in need of a rest.
CB: Ibrahima Konate - Klopp would ideally rest both Konate and Virgil van Dijk on Thursday, but he may have to use the Frenchman given Joel Matip is injured. As was the case against Southampton in the FA Cup, the former RB Leipzig man may share some minutes with his captain.
CB: Jarell Quansah - The youngster announced himself to the Liverpool faithful with some stellar performances in Europe this season and he should be given another start in Prague.
LB: Kostas Tsimikas - One of Klopp's more straightforward calls, the Greek defender will replace Andy Robertson on Thursday. He produced the match-winning assist in the Carabao Cup final at Wembley and should come into the starting lineup.
CM: Alexis Mac Allister - There are big question marks in midfield on Thursday, with Wataru Endo and Dominik Szoboszlai only just returning from injury. Mac Allister deserves a rest, but the Argentine could offer some experience to a youthful engine room.
CM: James McConnell - Some impressive displays mean the 19-year-old is now a genuine option for Klopp and he could be employed as the Reds' defensive midfielder midweek.
CM: Bobby Clark - After securing his first Premier League start at Forest, the 19-year-old clearly has Klopp's trust. He was outstanding against Southampton in the FA Cup and put in a respectable display at the City Ground.
RW: Kaide Gordon - One of Liverpool's forgotten youngsters following some significant injuries, Gordon is now available for the Reds. With Harvey Elliott needing a rest and Mohamed Salah unavailable, it could be a great opportunity for the 19-year-old.
ST: Cody Gakpo - The Dutchman has been far more impactful in the cup competitions this season and he has four goal contributions in four Europa League games. With Nunez only just returning from injury, Gakpo is likely to get the nod.
LW: Luis Diaz - Lewis Koumas will be hopeful of sneaking another start after a goal on his debut against Southampton, but the indefatigable Diaz would be far more effective against Sparta. The Colombian has been in much better form since the turn of the year after an understandably tough start to the season.
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