Christian Benteke could get his first start since his return from a knee injury as the Reds look to avenge their 3-0 loss to the Hornets in the reverse fixture.
With Sturridge finally fit for an extended period and getting considerable amount of game-time, Klopp will look to save the energy of his main man for the big matches coming up for the Reds. Liverpool entertain Chelsea at Anfield in a midweek Premier League fixture before rounding off their season at West Brom next week. Then they head to Basel to play Sevilla in the Europa League final. Hence the German will look to rotate his squad and give Belgian Christian Benteke a chance to shine.
Danny Ward is expected to take the role between the sticks for the second league game in a row following a good showing in recent weeks. The Welsh international would want to leave a good impression on Klopp as the 22-year-old fights for a long-term future at the club.
Jordan Henderson and Divock Origi ‘could’ feature at Basel
Giving a fitness update about Divock Origi and Jordan Henderson, Klopp said that if both return to training and are fit enough to feature in the final league game at West Brom, then they could play a part in the Europa League final at Basel.
The boss said in his pre-match press conference, “I don’t know about Hendo. He was celebrating last night, and I saw in his eyes he thinks he has a chance. That’s the first and most important step.”
“Same with Divock Origi. But we will see. I have no idea yet. The latest moment if you want to play in the final is for the Sunday before”
Liverpool fans have been buzzing with excitement over Danny Ings’ return to training after almost nine months, having been sidelined by cruciate ligament injury. Talk even emerged of the Englishman potentially making a return to first team action before the end of the season. However, Jurgen Klopp felt there was no need to rush the striker’s return and stand the risk of causing further injury.
Emre Can is back, but unlikely to play
Among the major positives that emerged out of Liverpool’s 3-0 drubbing of Villarreal was the return to first team action of Emre Can. However, with the Chelsea game coming up, it’s highly likely the German midfielder will be rested, so as to avoid any further niggles or injuries.
Brad Smith will not be available for selection for the Reds as he serves his one-match suspension following his red card last week at the Liberty Stadium. The Reds will look to avenge the embarrassing 3-0 loss they suffered at Vicarage Road and also look to push higher up the table with the games remaining.
