Liverpool is on the verge of being crowned the Premier League champion, although Tottenham will be aiming to spoil the party at Anfield later.
Arne Slot’s side is just a single point away from securing the title, and will be expected to complete its mission against a Spurs side whose priorities lie elsewhere. Ange Postecoglou finds himself under increasing pressure amid a desperately poor league season, with claims that he will be dismissed at the end of the campaign growing.
The Australian can still salvage something from the season though, with Tottenham still in the hunt for the Europa League. With the first leg of its semi-final against Bodo/Glimt on Thursday, it’s fair to say that the North London side might be putting all their eggs in one basket, which may well play into Liverpool’s hands.
With that in mind, don’t be surprised to see Postecoglou making some big changes to his side later especially in defense. Cristian Romero and Micky van de Ven will likely be in line to start on Thursday, meaning they could both be rested for today’s game at Anfield, given they have both had their injury problems this season.
Radu Draguson is a long-term absentee with a knee injury, which means Kevin Danso could be in line for a first start since picking up a hamstring problem in March. Ben Davies may start alongside him in the heart of the back four, with Archie Gray giving Pedro Porro a rest at right-back, and Destiny Udogie getting the nod over Djed Spence on the left.
The next big questions lie in midfield, with Postecoglou needing to decide how many of his biggest names to rest. Lucas Bergvall may be one of those he chooses not to risk, with Yves Bissouma getting a start instead of the 19-year-old.
It’s still a fairly familiar midfield three for Spurs though, with Pape Matar Sarr and James Maddison also starting. There are more big decisions to make in the front three though.
Son Heung-min is definitely out, and will be touch and go to return on Thursday. Brennan Johnson looks a good bet to get a start at Anfield, but it’s just a question of who gets the nod alongside him.
You would imagine Dominic Solanke will start in midweek, meaning he might be rested against his former side today, with Richarlison potentially getting the nod in his place. Then it’s likely to be a straight shootout between Mathys Tel and Wilson Odobert for the last remaining spot, with the latter getting the nod from us as Spurs look to delay the inevitable for Liverpool.