Liverpool vs. Chelsea: 5 keys to the match

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LONDON, ENGLAND – SEPTEMBER 16: N’Golo Kante of Chelsea and Adam Lallana of Liverpool battle for possession during the Premier League match between Chelsea and Liverpool at Stamford Bridge on September 16, 2016, in London, England. (Photo by Clive Rose/Getty Images) /

Liverpool: Shifting Adam Lallana back to the midfield

A topic of debate among Liverpool supporters since Sadio Mane departed for the AFCON tournament, and now taking center stage, one of the keys to getting a result midweek will be the shifting of Adam Lallana back into the midfield line.

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With recent evidence showing it most, Lallana’s traits simply don’t fit the front line. His electricity and ability to chase the ball like the energizer bunny make him a perfect midfield partner for Gini Wijnaldum and Jordan Henderson, who would then be free to collect the ball and distribute to either side. Emre Can’s poor form as of late is a concern for Klopp and limits his option in the middle of the park even further, meaning that Lallana’s move into the midfield three makes even more sense.

Of course, this raises the question of who joins Philippe Coutinho and Roberto Firmino up front. While Sheyi Ojo has impressed in cup games, it is not likely that Klopp calls on the youngster for such a huge occasion. That said, the German manager continues to show his faith in the youth, meaning that Ojo’s inclusion in the squad cannot be ruled out.

Instead, inserting one of Daniel Sturridge or Divock Origi seems to be the route Klopp will go. While neither player has enjoyed a solid run out recently, options are few. Regardless, Adam Lallana should be moved back into midfield to combat the force of Kante and company.

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