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Liverpool Set for FA Cup Test Against League Two Opponent
Liverpool welcome League Two side Accrington Stanley to Anfield on Saturday lunchtime for their FA Cup third-round tie. This marks only the second-ever meeting between the two sides, with the first dating back to 1956.
Reds manager Arne Slot, taking charge of his first FA Cup fixture, is expected to shuffle his squad, providing opportunities for fringe players and academy talents to impress. Despite a less-than-ideal start to the new year, Liverpool remain overwhelming favorites against the Lancashire minnows.
Liverpool Predicted Lineup vs Accrington (4-2-3-1)
Goalkeeper
GK: Caoimhin Kelleher
The reliable Irishman is set to feature in Liverpool’s first FA Cup match of the season. Kelleher, who was omitted from the starting XI against Tottenham, will be keen to keep a clean sheet at Anfield.
Defense
RB: Conor Bradley
With a congested fixture list, including a midweek trip to Nottingham Forest, Bradley is likely to start, giving Trent Alexander-Arnold some much-needed rest.
CB: Ibrahima Konate
Liverpool’s defensive options are limited due to Joe Gomez’s injury and Jarell Quansah’s illness. As a result, Konate might be required to start, unless Slot opts for a youthful alternative such as Amara Nallo.
CB: Wataru Endo
Endo, who filled in at center-back during the midweek loss to Tottenham, could reprise this role on Saturday. The Japan captain’s versatility offers a reliable option in defense.
LB: Andy Robertson
With Kostas Tsimikas playing midweek and no other natural left-back options, Robertson is likely to return to the starting XI. The Scotsman will look to answer critics questioning his long-term future at the club.
Midfield
DM: Tyler Morton
Morton, back from a successful loan spell, has impressed in limited opportunities this season. He will likely anchor the midfield, offering creativity and control against Accrington.
DM: Trey Nyoni
Highly regarded within the club, the 17-year-old Nyoni has shown promise in both preseason and competitive fixtures. This FA Cup tie presents another chance for the youngster to shine.
Attack
RW: Federico Chiesa
Chiesa, still seeking his first Liverpool goal, could use this match as an opportunity to regain confidence and form. Injuries have hampered his Anfield career thus far, but a strong performance could spark a turnaround.
AM: Harvey Elliott
Elliott, recovering from an early-season injury, has been limited to just nine appearances this term. Slot will likely hand him a start, where he can showcase his creativity and dynamism.
LW: Luis Diaz
Diaz, who only featured for 30 minutes midweek, is expected to start on the left wing. With many academy forwards out on loan, Diaz’s experience will be key.
ST: Darwin Nunez
Nunez’s inconsistent form continues to be a talking point. With only four goals and three assists in 25 appearances this season, the Uruguayan striker will hope to find his rhythm against lower-league opposition.
Match Context
Arne Slot’s side will be aiming to avoid any FA Cup drama against a determined Accrington side. This fixture serves as an opportunity for Liverpool to regain momentum and provide valuable minutes to players in need of confidence and form.
