Liverpool’s Europa League Aspirations After VAR Controversy
After a controversial VAR decision cost Liverpool a recent match, they are eager to rebound with back-to-back Europa League victories this Thursday. Despite the setback, manager Jurgen Klopp and his team are determined to maintain their focus as they prepare to host Union Saint-Gilloise at Anfield.
Klopp is expected to make tactical adjustments with an eye on the upcoming Premier League clash against Brighton on Sunday. One player who could feature in the starting lineup is Curtis Jones. While the 22-year-old is a regular starter in the Premier League, he was absent from the win over LASK due to suspension resulting from a red card against Tottenham.
Although Liverpool contested the suspension, it was upheld, meaning Jones must serve a three-match ban exclusively in the Premier League. However, he remains eligible to play in Thursday’s European fixture. With Trent Alexander-Arnold returning from injury and only making a brief appearance off the bench, Klopp might opt to deploy Jones, possibly reserving Alexander-Arnold for the weekend.
In the midfield, Liverpool has promising talents like Harvey Elliott, Wataru Endo, and Ryan Gravenberch who could benefit from more playing time. Jones is widely recognized as an exceptional talent, and he is undoubtedly eager to redeem himself for the red card incident. Saint-Gilloise should be prepared for his potential impact.