Liverpool visit Leeds United for their Premier League game later today, and the Reds will be hoping to close in on the top four with a victory.
Tonight’s game could be vital to Liverpool’s Champions League aspirations, and they cannot afford to slip up.
That said, it remains to be seen how important a top-four finish will eventually prove to be after the announcement of the European Super League (ESL) last night.
Liverpool have already signed up for the breakaway tournament along with five other Premier League clubs.
Their proposed participation in the ESL means that they will not be allowed to play in the Champions League.
The majority of fans are unhappy with the club’s decision to break away and form an exclusive competition which is perceived as a move motivated by financial reasons.
Some Liverpool fans have already been vocal about their disappointment with the club’s decision, and there are plans to remove banners from the Kop for the home game against Newcastle United.
We, along with other groups involved in flags, will be removing our flags from The Kop. We feel we can no longer give our support to a club which puts financial greed above integrity of the game.
— Spion Kop 1906 (@SpionKop1906) April 19, 2021
Furthermore, banners have been put up outside of Anfield already voicing the fans’ discontent regarding the ESL.
Liverpool fans banners at Anfield #Liverpool #thekop #lfc #anfield @LivEchonews @LivEchoLFC pic.twitter.com/mP6HiVaRwF
— Colin Lane (@snapperlane) April 19, 2021
Leeds fans are also preparing for a protest before the game.
After a conversation with the club this morning we will be issuing a statement shortly. If any fans are planning on a protesting this evening, we’d encourage you to do so, but please adhere to social distancing guidelines. #SayNoToSuperLeague pic.twitter.com/HGRaKJIa5n
— LUFC Trust (@lufctrust) April 19, 2021
As far as the team news is concerned, Leeds are set to be without Rodrigo and Adam Forshaw due to injuries.
Liverpool will be without Joel Matip, Virgil van Dijk, Joe Gomez and Jordan Henderson.
Predicted Leeds United starting line-up: Meslier, Ayling, Llorente, Struijk, Alioski, Raphinha, Phillips, Dallas, Harrison, Roberts, Bamford.
Liam Cooper and Helder Costa are expected to be the only changes to the side that beat Manchester City. Cooper was sent off against City, and 21-year-old Struijk is expected to start in place of him.
Predicted Liverpool starting line-up: Alisson, Alexander-Arnold, Kabak, Phillips, Robertson, Wijnaldum, Fabinho, Thiago, Mane, Firmino, Salah.
Read: Premier League 2020/21 Week 32 – EPL Results & Table.
