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Daily Mirror
Daily Mirror
Sport
Callum Vurley

Liverpool predicted XI vs Atalanta - Mohamed Salah to return but Sadio Mane to sit out

Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp will want to continue his side's fine form in Europe against Atalanta.

Three wins from three have put his side on the cusp of qualification from their group while another victory will see them go through with no danger.

The Reds have dominated their group, containing Atalanta, Ajax and FC Midtjylland.

However, several injury problems have arisen at Anfield and Klopp will be hoping to get through just one week without another player crocked.

His defence has been brutalised the harshest, with Virgil van Dijk and Joe Gomez out long-term while Trent Alexander-Arnold is also missing.

Fabinho has filled in at the back but tonight could be a chance for young Rhys Williams to shine.

The 19-year-old has impressed in the few glimpses fans have got from the centre-back.

It would also see Fabinho move back to his preferred spot in midfield, where he is most effective.

But there is also good news for Klopp who will welcome Mohamed Salah back to the squad today.

The Egyptian had missed the weekend clash against Leicester through coronavirus but he returned a negative test this week.

And the 28-year-old could be chucked straight into the first-team to continue his fine form this campaign.

The ex-Chelsea star has already scored 10 in 13 appearances and could partner Liverpool's summer signing Diogo Jota, who has also been rattling in goals for fun.

To glue them together, Roberto Firmino will likely retain his spot - despite the continued pleas from Takumi Minamino to be given a chance.

The Japan international has managed just 58 minutes on the pitch this campaign but Klopp has insisted he will get his chance.

"There is no dip in form," said Klopp.

"Taki is training well, (on Monday) he was exceptional for example. It’s just a strong team, and offensively – thank God – we didn’t have the same problems as the other positions. It’s hard to get in this team – that’s how it is.

"But no dip in form, just a challenge. Bobby (Firmino) plays like 12 instruments in our orchestra! He’s very important for our rhythm. We can play well without him as well.

"Taki is a sensational boy and a great player, so he will face that challenge. His time will come, no doubt."

Liverpool predicted XI: Alisson; N Williams, R Williams, Matip, Robertson; Milner, Fabinho, Jones; Salah, Firmino, Jota

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