Liverpool team today: Predicted lineup, goalkeeper and Chiesa decisions made
Liverpool travel to Molineux to take on Wolves in the late Premier League kick-off today. The Reds have started the season strongly under Arne Slot and could climb to the top of the table if results elsewhere go their way.
The Reds come into the game off the back on a 5-1 thrashing of West Ham in the Carabao Cup third round. A double from Diogo Jota and Cody Gakpo either side of Mohamed Salah’s strike eased the holders into the fourth round.
In the cup tie, Slot rang the changes, making nine alterations to the side, and something similar is expected today, with the Dutchman set to have a selection dilemma
Goalkeeper situation
Alisson Becker has missed the last couple of matches through injury with Caoimhin Kelleher deputizing in his place. But Slot revealed before the West Ham game in midweek that he is hopeful Alisson will be fit to face Wolves.
Slot confirmed the Brazilian returned to training in the week and is expected to make his comeback. "We think he is. He trained yesterday as part of the group, so we expect him to do the whole session today. We think he's available, but of course we need to train today,” Slot said in his press conference about Alisson.
"We are really happy with Alisson being back, but I want to emphasize the fact that Caoimhin did really well in the two games he was involved for us, so another example of me having two, and I think even three, good options in goal."
Federico Chiesa decision
Federico Chiesa made his first start for the club in the cup win following his move from Juventus late in the summer transfer window. The Italian registered an assist for the opening goal as his acrobatic effort was turned home by Jota, and all-in-all, impressed his boss.
Slot praised Chiesa’s first start as the forward lasted 60 minutes before he was replaced by Salah. "I was pleased to see he could already play 60 minutes because - I think I said last press conference - he's hardly played any minutes in the last three or four months,” Slot said.
"For him, it's important to get - apart from getting match fitness - playing minutes and that's what he got today. He assisted...although it was a shot on target that was promoted by Diogo to a goal. He worked really hard.
"I think it is normal that he's not already at the top of his ability. He has to get used to the club; his teammates; adjust to the playing style. But it was very good to see how fit he already is, so we can use him if we need him."
Despite Slot’s praise, Chiesa is likely to start on the bench again given Salah and Luis Diaz were rested from the off against the Hammers.
Likely Liverpool team vs Wolves
Alisson; Alexander-Arnold, Konate, Van Dijk, Robertson; Szoboszlai, Gravenberch, Mac Allister; Salah, Jota, Diaz.