Slot Faces Selection Puzzles for Community Shield Clash

Liverpool gears up for Wembley showdown against Crystal Palace

New Liverpool manager **Arne Slot** is grappling with key personnel decisions as his team prepares for the traditional season curtain-raiser, the Community Shield, against Crystal Palace at Wembley. The Reds are coming off a successful pre-season double-header against Athletic Bilbao.

Defensive Question Marks Ahead of Wembley

In goal, **Alisson Becker** is expected to return after a brief personal absence, slotting back in between the posts. However, the defense presents more immediate concerns. With **Joe Gomez** a doubt, **Virgil van Dijk** and **Ibrahima Konate** are the only senior centre-backs available.

The versatility of players like **Andy Robertson**, **Kostas Tsimikas**, and **Wataru Endo**, who have all deputised in central defence during pre-season, might be tested. **Milos Kerkez** is tipped for the left-back spot, while **Jeremie Frimpong** is favored at right-back due to **Conor Bradley’s** fitness issues.

Midfield Mid-Rotation Expected

The midfield engine room is another area where **Slot** might opt for changes. **Alexis Mac Allister**, recently returned from a lengthy injury layoff, could start on the bench, potentially giving **Ryan Gravenberch** more minutes. However, **Gravenberch’s** upcoming suspension for the Premier League opener could influence **Slot’s** thinking.

**Curtis Jones** and **Dominik Szoboszlai** have impressed in pre-season and are options for deeper midfield roles or as attacking midfielders. **Wataru Endo** also provides a midfield solution. **Florian Wirtz** is currently the frontrunner for the number 10 position, with **Harvey Elliott** having featured there in the first friendly.

Attacking Options Readied

Liverpool’s preferred attacking trio appears to be **Mohamed Salah** on the right, **Cody Gakpo** on the left, and new recruit **Hugo Ekitike** through the middle. **Darwin Nunez** and **Federico Chiesa** are also competing for the central striker role.

Last season, Liverpool’s defensive stability saw them concede only 30 goals in the Premier League, the second-best record in the division. This defensive solidity will be crucial as they face Crystal Palace, who finished 10th in the Premier League last term. Premier League Official Statistics 2023/24