Liverpool XI vs Atletico: Confirmed team news, predicted lineup and injury latest for Champions League | OneFootball

No fresh injury worries for the Reds ahead of European opener

The Merseysiders have no fresh injury concerns, but long-term absentees include Giovanni Leoni, Conor Bradley and French forward Hugo Ekitike.

Reds boss Iraola has hinted he will look to rotate after victory against Ipswich on Friday night as he implements a forward press and quick transition.

He name-checked Jeremy Frimpong and Ronald Araujo in his post-match interview, saying they’ll be needed from the start in different games.

That means Frimpong will be looking for a recall as Liverpool at Anfield, having been dropped at Portman Road.

Comeback: Jeremy Frimpong should get the nod against Atletico

It is possible Araujo will be moved into the centre of defence to partner Virgil van Dijk, with Jeremy Jacquet not quite fit enough to see out matches. The French youngster was subbed in Liverpool’s first two Premier League games and limped over the line at the weekend.

In midfield, Alexis MacAllister may be rotated for Ryan Gravenberch, who stands to resume his midfield partnership with Dominik Szoboszlai. Trey Nyoni is also pushing for a starting berth after impressing from the bench this season.

Further forward Alexander Isak will spearhead the Reds' attack having been rested just after the hour mark against Ipswich. The Swede had earlier bagged a brace for the first time in Liverpool colours.

It remains to be seen if the 26-year-old’s burgeoning partnership with Cody Gakpo will continue or if Bradley Barcola or Rio Ngumoha will come in to replace the Dutch forward who has started the season in style with one goal and three assists.

Florian Wirtz is set to continue his role in the pocket as he looks to become the key man for the new Reds manager. Wataru Endo has been left out of Liverpool’s Champions League squad list, while Victor Munoz might be rested.

Predicted Liverpool XI: Alisson; Kerkez, Van Dijk, Araujo, Frimpong; Szoboszlai, Gravenberch; Wirtz; Ngumoha, Gakpo, Isak

Injured: Leoni, Bradley, Ekitike