UEL 2023-24: LASK vs Liverpool: Predicted lineup, injury news, head-to-head, telecast

LASK Linz take on the Premier League giants in an epic showdown

In the picturesque setting of Austria's Raiffeisen Arena, the stage is set for a thrilling encounter as Liverpool, one of football's most storied clubs, faces off against LASK Linz, the ambitious Austrian outfit, in their inaugural Europa League Group E clash. This matchup is a testament to the unpredictability and excitement that European football offers, as Liverpool seeks to rebuild their European legacy while LASK Linz aims to carve a new chapter in their own continental journey.

Liverpool finds themselves in the Europa League this season due to their fifth-placed finish in the Premier League last term. They are no strangers to European success, having won the Champions League six times. However, this time, they set their sights on the Europa League trophy, a competition they last competed in during the 2015-16 season.

On the other side, LASK Linz earned their place in the group stage by overcoming Zrinjski Mostar 3-2 in qualifying. While they may not be the dominant force in Austrian football – a title claimed by Red Bull Salzburg – LASK is determined to prove themselves on the continental stage. This is only the third time they have made it to the group stages of a major European competition.

Kick-Off:

Thursday, September 21, 2023, 10:15 PM (IST) at DRV PNK Stadium in Raiffeisen Arena, United Kingdom.

Form

LASK Linz: D W W D W W

Liverpool: D W W W W

Players to Watch

Ebrima Darboe (LASK Linz)

For LASK Linz, Ebrima Darboe is a marquee signing, although his lack of fitness may prevent him from starting. The responsibility to lead the attack may fall on other players, and they'll need to step up to challenge Liverpool's defense.

Mohamed Salah (Liverpool)

Liverpool boast a potent attack, with Mohamed Salah, who will likely be managed carefully by Jurgen Klopp, and summer signing Ryan Gravenberch. Gravenberch may earn his first start for the Reds, while young talent Ben Doak could see some minutes in the attack.

Match facts

• Jürgen Klopp is entering his third season in the UEFA Europa League, having previously participated with Borussia Dortmund and Liverpool.
• Klopp has a strong group stage record, losing just one of his 10 previous group stage games in the competition.
• Liverpool is returning to the UEFA Europa League after reaching the final in the 2015-16 season.
• Liverpool has struggled in away games in the tournament, winning only four out of 21, with just one win in their last nine away matches.

Team news and Injury

LASK Linz will be missing several key players due to injury. Tobias Anselm, Yannis Letard, and Adil Taoui are all sidelined with ACL problems, while winger Lenny Pintor is absent due to a muscular issue. Additionally, Keito Nakamura, who had a standout season with 17 goals in 2022-23, departed for France.

Liverpool, on the other hand, welcomes the return of captain Virgil van Dijk from a two-game domestic ban. However, Trent Alexander-Arnold is still dealing with a hamstring issue and might not be available for this clash. Joe Gomez is likely to fill in for him. Unfortunately, midfielder Thiago Alcantara suffered a setback in his recovery from a hip problem and is expected to miss out.

Head-to-Head

Matches: 0

LASK Linz: 0

Draw: 0

Liverpool: 0

Predicted Lineup for LASK vs Liverpool

LASK Linz Predicted Lineup:

Lawal; Luckeneder, Ziereis, Andrade; Flecker, Jovicic, Horvath, Bello; Ljubicic, Zulj, Havel

Liverpool Predicted Lineup:

Kelleher; Gomez, Quansah, Van Dijk, Tsimikas; Elliott, Endo, Gravenberch; Doak, Salah, Diaz

Match Prediction for LASK vs Liverpool

LASK Linz is known for their ability to score goals at home, and they are likely to adopt an attacking approach against Liverpool. The Reds, while possibly fielding a second-string lineup, will still present a formidable challenge. Their attackers are in red-hot form, having secured a comeback victory against Wolverhampton Wanderers in their most recent Premier League outing.

The Austrian side may not be at their free-flowing best, but they have the talent and determination to make an impact. Should things go awry, Jurgen Klopp has the cavalry ready to be called upon.

Prediction: LASK Linz 1-3 Liverpool

The clash between LASK Linz and Liverpool in the Europa League Group E opener promises to be a captivating showdown. LASK, buoyed by their recent form, will seek to make a statement against a Liverpool side looking to conquer Europe once again.

Injury concerns and lineup choices will play a crucial role in the outcome, but fans can expect an exciting and unpredictable match as both teams begin their journey on the road to Dublin. Whether you're a Liverpool supporter or a neutral observer, this match is not to be missed. Stay tuned for what could be a thrilling encounter at the Raiffeisen Arena.

Telecast

India- Sony Sports Network

UK- TNT Sports

USA- Paramount+

Nigeria – SuperSport]