Brendan Rodgers’ men travel to Switzerland for tonight’s crunch Champions League clash…
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Martin Skrtel v Maro Streller
Basel’s veteran striker isn’t the quickest, but he’s mighty powerful. Skrtel will marshal Liverpool’s defence alongside the inconsistent Dejan Lovren, and likely be charged with winning the aerial battle with Streller – who’s especially dangerous at set-pieces. Surely Liverpool can’t concede from another one?
Mario Balotelli v Fabian Schar
With Daniel Sturridge still out injured, Balotelli needs to get the better of Basel’s top centre-back Fabian Schar. Against Ludogorets, the Italian forward scored his only goal for the Reds to date, and he’ll need to be on similar form if Liverpool are to head to Real Madrid in a fortnight’s time with two wins from two.
Steven Gerrard v Fabien Frei
Gerrard will sit deep in Liverpool’s midfield, but he can expect to be harried relentlessly by Frei. Basel’s 25-year-old is energetic and a good presser, something Liverpool’s captain has struggled to deal with this term. Away in Europe, it’ll be a big test of his ability.
Alberto Moreno v Derlis Gonzales
Moreno has done well for Liverpool going forward so far, but Gonzales scored against Real Madrid in Basel’s previous fixture, and will look to pin back the young Spaniard, who’s less accomplished defensively.
Raheem Sterling v Tauluant Xhaka
Xhaka must be nervous ahead of meeting the world’s best teenage footballer. Sterling has been Liverpool’s top player this season by a country mile, and has the pace and trickery to frighten 23-year-old Xhaka.
