Liverpool XI vs Chelsea: Confirmed team news, predicted lineup, injury latest for Premier League game today | OneFootball

Reds without first-choice goalkeeper Alisson for blockbuster Anfield showdown

Liverpool will be without Alisson when they host Chelsea in the headline Premier League clash of the weekend at Anfield today.

Deputy Caoimhin Kelleher will replace Alisson after a bout of illness that saw him miss the Selhurst Park trip and debutant Vitezslav Jaros come on instead, and it's expected that the Republic of Ireland international will line up behind a familiar back four of Trent Alexander-Arnold, Ibrahima Konate, captain Virgil van Dijk and Andy Robertson.

Assuming Alexis Mac Allister is fit to play after his own knock suffered at Palace after going away on Argentina duty, he should continue alongside Ryan Gravenberch in central midfield, but there is a decision to make for Liverpool boss Arne Slot as to who operates in the No10 role behind the main striker.

Opportunity: Caoimhin Kelleher will deputise in goal for Liverpool with Alisson sidelined

Liverpool FC via Getty Images

Last time out, Curtis Jones got the nod over Dominik Szoboszlai against the Eagles, but the latter should be full of confidence after netting a brace for Hungary during the week and could be rewarded with a recall here.

Summer signing Federico Chiesa could be available again after not making the Liverpool matchday squad at Selhurst Park but he's unlikely to dislodge Mohamed Salah from the starting lineup and the same goes for Darwin Nunez as Diogo Jota is the preferred option to lead the attack.

Cody Gakpo gave a good account of himself against Palace on the left-hand side of the Reds' attack, but it's likely he will drop down to the bench with Luis Diaz - who has scored five goals in seven Premier League appearances so far this season - reclaiming his spot.

Wataru Endo has been dealing with illness and could miss out, while Kostas Tsimikas also missed Greece’s shock win over England at Wembley in the Nations League but should be involved this afternoon. Harvey Elliott remains out with a foot injury.

Predicted Liverpool XI (4-2-3-1): Kelleher; Alexander-Arnold, Konate, Van Dijk, Robertson; Mac Allister, Gravenberch; Salah, Szoboszlai, Diaz; Jota

Doubts: Mac Allister, Endo, Chiesa

Injured: Alisson, Elliott

Time and date: 4.30pm BST on Sunday October 20, 2024

Venue: Anfield

How to watch: Sky Sports