dan1jackson3Line-up for the league cup. Expect Doni to play as despite being 2nd choice he'd have been expecting some game time for Liverpool. If they don't trust him for Exeter City then don't expect him to play at all.

An inexperienced defence, due to the departure of Kgyriakos, the age of Carragher, the fragility of Agger and Aurelio & Johnson being injured. Having impressed during first team opportunities, Flanagan and Robinson both likely to start and provide support in a team lacking 'out-and-out' wingers (unless Downing or Sterling starts). Unless Danny Wilson is going out on loan any time soon, he'll partner Skrtel in the centre of defence, whilst needing to prove a point after some mediocre performances and the potential for Kelly or Wisdom to cover for the centre back position.

Jay Spearing will anchor the midfield and provide excellent protection for the young backline. With few appearances in pre-season and the Prem' Raul Meireles is likely to start, though with an appearance against Bolton likely, this could see Conor Coady replace him at some point (unless Aquilani is not joining Milan, then you'd assume he'd feature). Despite a below-par performance versus Sporting Lisbon in the NextGen series and Krisztian Adorjan appearing the superior player, Shelvey is likely to get a rare start, hopefully in a deep playmaker role where he operates best. Henderson and Maxi will start out wide providing an abundance of energy and will cut inside to link in with the midfield and help Liverpool dominate possesion.

Carroll will play the lone striker role as he is short of match fitness. Hopefully Liverpool should not have to resort to long ball tactics as in Maxi, Meireles, Henderson and Spearing he'll have 4 players with excellent stamina behind who should provide support. Kuyt may make an appearance if things are not going to plan, but if Liverpool are comfortable then we could see up and coming strikers like Michael Ngoo or Adam Morgan.

24.08.2011