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Watford v Liverpool: Predicted starting XIs for both sides

By Tom Bogert

WATFORD, ENGLAND - MAY 01: Emre Can of Liverpool scores the opening goal during the Premier League match between Watford and Liverpool at Vicarage Road on May 1, 2017 in Watford, England. (Photo by Dan Mullan/Getty Images)
WATFORD, ENGLAND - MAY 01: Emre Can of Liverpool scores the opening goal during the Premier League match between Watford and Liverpool at Vicarage Road on May 1, 2017 in Watford, England. (Photo by Dan Mullan/Getty Images) /
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WIGAN, ENGLAND – JULY 14: Mohamed Salah of Liverpool celebrates with Roberto Firmino after scoring their first goal during the pre-season friendly match between Wigan Athletic and Liverpool at DW Stadium on July 14, 2017 in Wigan, England. (Photo by Alex Livesey/Getty Images)
WIGAN, ENGLAND – JULY 14: Mohamed Salah of Liverpool celebrates with Roberto Firmino after scoring their first goal during the pre-season friendly match between Wigan Athletic and Liverpool at DW Stadium on July 14, 2017 in Wigan, England. (Photo by Alex Livesey/Getty Images) /

Liverpool (4-3-3): Mignolet; Alexander-Arnold, Matip, Lovren, Milner; Henderson, Can, Wijnaldum; Salah, Firmino, Mane

The absence of Coutinho dulls the attack some, especially if Watford are keen to sit deep and disallow Liverpool to play in behind and press. The Brazilian moving to the midfield was key for games like this.

Lallana and Clyne missing is suboptimal as well, but both can be replaced to a degree. Both Can and Wijnaldum easily have the quality to start for a Champions League quality team, and both would have likely missed out if everyone was fit. And Trent Alexander-Arnold looks like he’s ready to start for Liverpool right now.

The defense has a Virgil Van-Hole in it that will be inadequately filled with Dejan Lovren next to Joel Matip. James Milner gets the nod at left back despite impressive summers from new boy Robertson and the redemption tour of Alberto Moreno.

But talking about the defense with Liverpool is boring. The attack is more fun and one of the best in the world.

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The pace of Salah and Sadio Mane is silly. Plus as each have top class technical ability, it feels like a cheat code.

Firmino between them as a false nine is perfect for this team. The Brazilian is a creative player that will link up play better than most center forwards with his own goal scoring ability. Plus, he presses better than anyone this side of Lallana.

We all know Liverpool are at their best when pressing and breaking with pace. Their problem, for years, has been breaking down stiff defenses. Watford, even with their own attacking quality, will be wise to sit deep.

Can Liverpool break them down? If they can, then they’re in the title race. If not? Perhaps back to the Europa League they go.

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