Three days removed from a hard-fought 1-0 away win against Sunderland in a Premier League match, Liverpool return to action, hosting a team currently 14th in the Premier League as they aim to advance to the fifth round of the world’s oldest football competition.
The key task for manager Arne Slot now is to carefully consider whether to maintain a full-strength starting eleven or rotate the squad after playing a game just 72 hours prior. A crucial factor is his desire to guide the club into the next round while preserving team quality for an upcoming clash with Brighton.
Goalkeeper: Giorgi Mamardashvili
Mamardashvili guarded the net in the third-round tie and is likely to receive another start in the FA Cup game, having been an understudy for seven matches. He is expected to be one of three changes in Liverpool’s defense.
Back Four: Joe Gomez, Ibrahima Konaté, Virgil van Dijk, Miloš Kerkez
Central defenders Konaté and van Dijk remain integral to the backline. A change will see Gomez earn a start, filling in due to several injuries at right-back. The player recently returned to the pitch for 21 minutes against Sunderland, delivering an impressive performance. Kerkez will return to his role at left-back, replacing Andrew Robertson.
Midfield: Ryan Gravenberch, Curtis Jones
Another anticipated adjustment involves Alexis Mac Allister, as his physical condition may not allow him to play two games within three days. This provides an opportunity for Jones, who was a substitute in the match against Sunderland, to enter the starting lineup alongside Gravenberch, a key player for “The Reds” who is indispensable in midfield.
Attack: Mohamed Salah, Dominik Szoboszlai, Florian Wirtz
Szoboszlai returns to the starting lineup after serving a suspension, and his return will significantly boost the team’s attacking power. His fitness and aggressive play will benefit Liverpool’s offense. Wirtz is also expected to continue in the lineup, maintaining his excellent form to build momentum. Salah, despite a recent lack of goals, remains a trusted figure, consistently contributing with assists and overall play.
Striker: Hugo Ekitike
It’s believed that the Dutch coach wants assurance and sharpness in the attack, so he is unlikely to rest Ekitike, hoping to capitalize on his momentum in the pursuit of goals. If the team gains a comfortable lead, Cody Gakpo or Federico Chiesa may be brought on during the second half.
Liverpool’s recent form has been strong, punctuated by a hard-fought victory over Sunderland. The EFL Cup final looms, with a rematch against Chelsea potentially on the horizon, mirroring the 2021-22 season. However, Slot’s immediate focus is on navigating this FA Cup tie against Norwich City. The team’s ability to balance cup aspirations with league commitments will be a key storyline as the season progresses.
Norwich City, currently in the Championship, sent Bristol Rovers packing after a replay in the previous round. While they represent a lower-league opponent, they are not to be underestimated, particularly given the potential for an upset in cup competitions. David Wagner, the Norwich manager and a long-time friend of Klopp, will undoubtedly be looking to spring a surprise at Anfield.
The match also carries emotional weight, coming in the wake of Jurgen Klopp’s announcement that he will depart at the end of the season. While Klopp has urged fans to reserve their tributes for later, focusing on the pursuit of a potential quadruple, the atmosphere at Anfield is sure to be charged with emotion. The players will be motivated to deliver a performance worthy of their departing manager, and a strong showing in the FA Cup would be a fitting tribute to his legacy.
The selection of Mamardashvili in goal suggests a willingness to rotate and provide opportunities to squad players. Gomez’s return to the starting eleven is a direct response to the injury situation at right-back, highlighting the importance of squad depth. The midfield pairing of Gravenberch and Jones offers a blend of creativity and energy, while the attacking trio of Salah, Szoboszlai, and Wirtz provides a potent threat. Ekitike’s selection up front indicates a desire for a dynamic and clinical presence in the penalty area.
Liverpool’s success in this FA Cup tie will depend on their ability to execute their game plan effectively and capitalize on their attacking opportunities. Norwich City will undoubtedly pose a challenge, but Liverpool’s quality and experience should see them through to the next round, keeping their quadruple dream alive.
