Liverpool will look to strengthen their position in the Champions League group by beating Swiss side Basel on Match Day 2.
The merseysiders were far from convincing in the first game against Ludogorets and must improve big time. Also, taking into consideration their recent form without Sturridge, the game against Basel may prove to be tough as well.
As far as Liverpool team news is concerned, Markovic is still suspended for the game as he completes his European ban. Expect, Phil Coutinho to come in the starting XI.
Lallana returned from injury and has played 5 games in the last 2 weeks already. The England international is constantly improving his form and fitness but must not be dragged.
In Lallana’s place, BR may opt to start young Suso, who was influential in their Capital One Cup game and deserves his chance.
The rest of the starting lineup is expected to remain the same as it was against Everton last weekend with Mario Balotelli starting as lone striker upfront.
Here is Liverpool’s probable XI vs Basel.
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Liverpool Starting XI vs Basel with Suso, Coutinho & Mario
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I do not think Mario is totally comfortable upfront on is own, at least not at the moment. Using the personnel listed on the possible line-up above, all seems fine, except I would move Sterling up front with Mario and employ a 4-2-2-2 set-up for at least the first half and see how it plays. If required in the second half, the line-up could always be tweaked and reverted to Mario up front on his own with Sterling dropping back or playing right behind Mario like Gerrard used to play with Torres.