Key Battles: Genk (A)
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After a controversy-laden 1-1 draw at Old Trafford on the weekend, Liverpool face an away task versus Genk in the UEFA Champions League.
Jurgen Klopp’s redmen will be looking to return to winning ways on Wednesday night, having drawn to their fierce rivals on Sunday.
They face a Genk side who are yet to win group E of the UEFA Champions League so far this season. The Belgian side have conceded six goals in their opening two games, whilst only scoring twice themselves.
For Liverpool, this signifies a test that they will be hoping to pass with flying colours. Their quest to defend the prestigious European crown didn’t start perfectly, with a defeat in Naples and a stuttering win at home to Salzburg.
However, with Mo Salah returning from injury, Klopp and his players will be confident when they head to Belgium on Wednesday night. Here, we outline five key battles that the Reds must win across the pitch.
Naby Keita v Sander Berge
After an impressive substitute appearance at Old Trafford on the weekend, Naby Keita could be in line for his first Champions League start of the season. Could this be the start of the attacking midfielder’s first successful stint for the Reds? Injury has plagued his Liverpool career thus far.
James Milner v Theo Bongonda
James Milner could be recalled to first-team action on Wednesday night, with Trent Alexander-Arnold absent through illness. The versatile Liverpool man could have the task of marking Theo Bongonda who has previously been linked with moves to Manchester United and Chelsea.
Mo Salah v Jere Uronen
After missing out on the weekend through injury, Mo Salah is back in Liverpool’s matchday squad for Genk on Wednesday night. The Egyptian King will be hoping to return with a bang for the Reds against a Genk side who have already conceded six goals in Europe this season.
Sadio Mane v Joakim Maehle
With Mo Salah potentially back in the starting XI, Sadio Mane should have the chance to express himself more than he did against Manchester United. The Senegalese winger has been an important part of the Reds’ attacking line up so far this season and could cause serious problems for Joakim Maehle.
Virgil van Dijk v Mbwana Samatta
If Genk are to line up in their usual 4-2-3-1 formation, Mbwana Samatta could have a difficult job getting the better of Virgil van Dijk. However, the Reds’ defence has looked less impressive this season than last time out. Therefore, Van Dijk will be hopeful of getting a much needed clean sheet under his belt.
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