Liverpool predicted XI vs Burnley, Arne Slot makes huge £241m decision as Conor Bradley returns

Liverpool will return to Premier League action after the international break as Arne Slot’s side prepare to face Burnley.

The Reds will travel to Turf Moor on Sunday, hoping to extend their perfect Premier League record against newly promoted opposition.

Although Slot confirmed in his pre-match press conference on Friday that Curtis Jones will miss the clash, the majority of his squad returned to the AXA Training Centre unscathed after the international break.

Now that the summer transfer window has long closed and the squad is set ahead of a hectic domestic and European schedule, here is how Liverpool could line up against Burnley.

Liverpool predicted XI vs Burnley

Goalkeeper: The goalkeeper position is virtually set in stone at Anfield, and Alisson Becker will be expected to retain his spot at Turf Moor.

Defence: Jeremie Frimpong returned from injury during the international break and is likely to be in contention to retain his starting place from the opening day win against Bournemouth.

However, Conor Bradley has dazzled for Northern Ireland as he got some important game time for his country following a minor injury setback, and he should edge out Frimpong for his first start of the campaign.

Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konate are expected to continue their partnership in central defence, with the impressive Milos Kerkez completing the backline in Lancashire.

Midfield: Alexis Mac Allister completed his first 90 minutes of football since April in the loss against Ecuador on Wednesday. While Slot will undoubtedly be pleased that the Argentine did not aggravate his injury further, he is facing a selection dilemma in central midfield.

Ryan Gravenberch should be one of the first names on the team sheet, but the remaining two midfield roles are subject to debate.

Paul Merson suggested Slot should drop Florian Wirtz on Sunday, but the German international should retain his place in the starting line-up – the Reds’ £116 million man was incredible for his nation last time out.

Hungary boss Marco Rossi said Dominik Szoboszlai is “one of the best in the world” as a deep-lying midfielder, and after his phenomenal start to the Premier League campaign, it is unlikely Slot will drop the number eight.

Forwards: Mohamed Salah is another name who should not be missing from the starting lineup anytime soon. The Egyptian has endured a slow start, but the supporters feel it is only a matter of time before he kicks into gear.

TBR Football exclusively revealed that Liverpool are impressed with Alexander Isak after the Swede reported to training for the first time since his £125m move from Newcastle.

However, Slot confirmed it will take time before Isak is ready to start games at Anfield; therefore, Hugo Ekitike will be expected to lead the line at Turf Moor.

And with the dilemma regarding his two new centre-forwards resolved, Slot is expected to name Cody Gakpo on the left flank to complete his Liverpool starting XI.

Arne Slot understands Liverpool need a strong start vs Burnley

The Reds head to Turf Moor as strong favourites to take the three points. Liverpool have won their last five visits to Burnley, conceding only once.

Nevertheless, Slot understands how tough a trip this will be for his side and revealed in his pre-match press conference that he believes an early goal will be vital in ensuring victory for his side.

“To implement it as best as possible, but the final third is mainly for the form of wingers, mainly. Because you end up on the sides, the bigger threat they are the chances we will generate.

“An early goal normally helps you in a game like this. If you concede, it gives even more energy to the other team. As always, we’re hoping our attackers can make the difference.”

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