Liverpool welcome Chelsea to Anfield on Wednesday, 28 October, for the Carabao Cup fourth round after Sunday’s 2-0 Premier League win over Brighton. That result lifted the Reds to fourth, but Florian Wirtz is doubtful after leaving the Brighton match with an ankle problem, while several regulars remain unavailable. Liverpool also face Arsenal in the league on Sunday, so Iraola must balance cup ambition with minutes management.
Wirtz started and came off in the 65th minute. Alexander Isak scored for a third consecutive league game, finishing Bradley Barcola’s pass, and should again lead the line with Hugo Ekitiké continuing his recovery. The Swedish striker has six goals in seven Premier League appearances, making his selection likely despite the busy schedule.
Liverpool predicted lineup vs Chelsea
Liverpool (4-2-3-1): Giorgi Mamardashvili; Ronald Araújo, Jérémy Jacquet, Virgil van Dijk, Miloš Kerkez; Alexis Mac Allister, Ryan Gravenberch; Rio Ngumoha, Trey Nyoni, Bradley Barcola; Alexander Isak.
Cup rotation could bring Mamardashvili in for Alisson. Araújo can cover right-back with Bradley and Frimpong out, while Jacquet could partner Van Dijk and Kerkez keep his place after starting against Brighton.
Mac Allister and Gravenberch give Liverpool a settled midfield base, but Nyoni could step into the number 10 role if Wirtz fails a fitness test. The Standard’s latest forecast also backs the teenager for an advanced role, with Ngumoha and Barcola stretching Chelsea from the flanks. With Bradley and Frimpong unavailable at right-back, Araújo offers cover there; Szoboszlai, Leoni and Ekitiké remain sidelined, while Muñoz is a doubt.
Can Liverpool progress without Wirtz?
Liverpool will need quick movement around Isak if Wirtz misses out. Nyoni can link midfield to attack, although the Reds may lack Wirtz’s ability to find tight pockets and create chances under pressure. Barcola’s cut-back helped Isak score against Brighton, offering a clear route to goal.
Chelsea’s threat should discourage Liverpool from making too many changes at once. Van Dijk can organise the back line, while Mac Allister and Gravenberch must protect the centre when the full-backs advance. Liverpool must maintain that balance while managing their workload before Sunday’s meeting with Arsenal.
