Brendan Rodgers seemingly confirmed during Friday’s press conference that Raheem Sterling would start against Stoke City on Sunday, despite his ongoing contract disputes with the club.
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Asked about his player’s future, in quotes taken by the Daily Mirror, he said: “I don’t see Raheem unhappy. He’s a young boy who’s developed well over the last three seasons and we hope that development will continue here. He will be available for selection this weekend.”
It’s hard to see the youngster missing out on a place in the team, as his absence would be a huge indication to our rivals that we could be willing to let him go during the summer transfer window.
Indeed, the team is likely to be as strong as possible to ensure that we consolidate our fifth placed finish. Here’s how we think we’ll line-up:
GK) Simon Mignolet
He needs a clean-sheet to guarantee himself at least a share of the Premier League’s Golden Glove award. He’ll still have fond memories of his first shut-out as a Liverpool player, which came after saving a last-minute penalty against Stoke.
RCB) Emre Can
Likely to return to a more central role as Brendan Rodgers employs a 3-4-2-1 formation. The German has been moved all over the place so far this season but will want to end a wholly positive campaign on a high here.
CB) Martin Skrtel
The Slovakian will have his hands full with Stoke’s massively underrated forward line, which includes former Liverpool striker Peter Crouch, as well as the likes of Mame Biram Diouf and Peter Odemwingie.
LCB) Dejan Lovren
Lovren has been a regular over the last couple of months and should keep his place ahead of Mamadou Sakho, who has not played a single minute of football in almost two months. The Frenchman could be on the bench.
RWB) Jordon Ibe
Fresh off the back of signing his new long-term contract, the teenager will be eager to impress and prove just what he’s capable of in a Liverpool shirt. How he’d love to sign off for the season with his first goal for the club.
CM) Jordan Henderson
In what is likely to be his final Liverpool game without the captaincy, Henderson will need to prove that he’s ready to step-up and meet that imminent challenge. We all know he’s capable but a timely reminder would be nice.
CM) Steven Gerrard
His final game as a Liverpool player. Sadly it’s not the FA Cup final, it’s not even at Anfield, but hopefully he can sign off with another memorable moment. He’s scored twice already this month and would love another one.
LWB) Alberto Moreno
The Spaniard has been solid all season and will be looking to do the same job here – getting up and down the left-hand side to support both the defence and the attack. He remains on course for an extremely bright future.
AM) Adam Lallana
He’s been getting better and better over the last few games. What would be nice, from our perspective, is to see him play a full 90 minutes and maintain that same consistency throughout the game.
AM) Philippe Coutinho
A chance to celebrate our Player of the Season, who’s playing his final game before heading off to the Copa America. He’ll be looking to end a superb individual season with another moment of magic.
ST) Raheem Sterling
We expect Sterling to start and retain his position as the leader of the attacking line. Jerome Sinclair will be eyeing his spot, as well as a first start for the senior team, but we think he’s going to have to wait a little longer.
