Liverpool begin their Carabao Cup campaign when they welcome Leicester City to Anfield in the third round this evening (19.45 BST).
The Reds have a stellar reputation in the competition, having won it a record nine times - most recently in the 2021-22 season. While a Premier League top-four finish is Liverpool’s principal aim this term, a cup run will be welcomed. Assistant manager Pep Lijnders pointed out while conducting pre-match media duties that consistent game time will bring the best out of the squad.
Changes will be made from the 3-1 victory over West Ham, which delivered Jurgen Klopp’s side a sixth successive victory in all competitions. But Liverpool will be fielding a side that is capable of defeating a Leicester outfit who are top of the Championship and full of confidence.
With all that in mind, here’s the Reds team we predict to line-up.
5. LB - Kostas Tsimikas
Penned a new deal earlier this week and will be aiming for a big performance. | Liverpool FC via Getty Images Photo: Andrew Powell/Liverpool FC via Getty Images
6. CM - Wataru Endo
The summer signing continues to acclimatise to life at Anfield and another outing will be imperative. | Getty Images Photo: Matt McNulty/Getty Images
7. CM - Ryan Gravenberch
Caught the eye against LASK last week as he aims to win a starting spot after arriving from Bayern Munich. | Liverpool FC via Getty Images Photo: Andrew Powell/Liverpool FC via Getty Images
8. CM - Harvey Elliott
Klopp has been impressed by Elliott’s performances off the bench this season and he’ll get another chance to catch the eye from the outset. | Liverpool FC via Getty Images Photo: Andrew Powell/Liverpool FC via Getty Images