Liverpool return to European action on Thursday night, taking on Sparta Prague in the opening leg of the Europa League last-16.
Mohamed Salah has traveled to Prague with the rest of Liverpool’s 23-man squad and, if called upon, may make only his second appearance for the club since New Year’s Day.
Dominik Szoboszlai and Wataru Endo have also traveled, although young striker Jayden Danns has been ruled out of a potential European debut for the team due to a concussion sustained against Nottingham Forest on Saturday.
If Liverpool wins in Prague tonight, Jurgen Klopp will be able to rotate his squad for the second leg next week, which falls between games against Manchester City and Manchester United.
Liverpool FC journalist Paul Gorst is in Prague, providing live reports from the Epet Arena. Meanwhile, Chief Liverpool Writer Ian Doyle completes the partnership from ECHO headquarters.
Ratings
Caoimhin Kelleher 8.
Made a few good stops and one claim that left him flat and winded, but was much needed at the time. Taking advantage of Alisson’s absence.
Joe Gomez 7
Mr Versatile has returned to the right side of defence, filling in the hybrid role when needed. He’s become such an important member of the Liverpool squad.
Jarell Quansah 7.
As usual, he was unfussed in the presence of his more seasoned colleagues. Developing into a legitimate player for Jurgen Klopp’s team.
Ibrahima Konate 8
Two crucial saves kept Preciado at 1-0, and he was rock solid against the dangerous Haraslin. A true leader in the back.
Andy Robertson 6
Captain for the night. Sparta’s danger has been primarily down his side, with his regular contribution along the flank. There have also been several risky deliveries from the corners.
Wataru Endo 7.
Week by week, its prominence and stature grow. A true defensive expert in the midfield region. I was fortunate to avoid a booking for hauling down Haraslin to prevent a counter-attack.
Alexis Macallister 8
Won the penalty with great pressing and finished calmly under pressure from a boisterous home crowd. Typically excellent in possession.
Harvey Elliott 6
Neat and tidy in possession, constantly striving to keep Liverpool on the front foot. A scuffed shot on his right foot, even when properly placed, will disappoint him.
Luis Diaz 7
I struggled to get into the game at first, but I began to enjoy it as time passed. The late pass to Gakpo deserved an assist.
Cody Gakpo 7.
A willing runner on the right wing who is most likely more comfortable in the center or off the left. Working hard to make things happen. Late in the half, we came close to 3-0.
Darwin Nunez 9
Some strike to bring up his 15th goal of the season. It also came at a vital time, as Sparta rallied from 1-0 down. The second one was also excellent. A player is now in top form.
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Sparta Prague – Liverpool LIVE: score, Nunez and Mac Allister goals, and commentary stream.
