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The return of the Carabao Cup will inevitably prompt Arne Slot to rotate his squad for Liverpool's clash with Crystal Palace this week. Despite previous setbacks against the Eagles, including a penalty shootout loss in the Community Shield and a 2-1 defeat at Selhurst Park, it's unlikely that Slot will deploy his star players in a bid for revenge.
As is often the case, the team will be reshuffled, potentially leading to some intriguing narratives on the night of the fourth-round tie. Many of Liverpool's squad members are essentially competing for more game time in this competition, following the disappointing defeat at Brentford.
Freddie Woodman is set to make his debut between the sticks for the Reds. With Alisson Becker out due to a hamstring problem, Giorgi Mamardashvili has been the go-to choice recently, but Woodman, who arrived on a quiet free transfer in the summer, will be called upon to step in.
In the right-back position, Jeremie Frimpong is currently out with a hamstring injury, leaving Conor Bradley as the only available senior option.
Dominik Szoboszlai has filled in there occasionally this season, and while Joe Gomez could theoretically cover, the experienced and adaptable defender will be required in the center-back role. The question remains whether Bradley will be asked to play his third match in a week - a delicate juggling act for Slot to manage.
Calvin Ramsay could be an option, despite his last senior appearance being nearly three years ago in a penalty-shootout victory over Derby County in this competition under Jurgen Klopp. This might seem like an unconventional choice, but with Bradley's fitness record not being flawless, an injury would be a significant setback at this point. Ramsay did impress and score in Sunday's mini-derby thrashing of Everton.
Gomez may be partnered by Wataru Endo in defence as the head coach is unlikely to risk Ibrahima Konate or Virgil van Dijk, and Milos Kerkez and Andy Robertson are options for the left side.
In midfield, it could be a prime opportunity for Alexis Mac Allister to get some game time, as he's still working towards full fitness after a shortened summer. The Argentina World Cup winner came on as a substitute in the second half in Frankfurt last week and again in Saturday's 3-2 loss to Brentford.
Trey Nyoni is also pushing for another start, having started the match against Southampton in the previous round. This competition is ideal for young players with potential who need first-team experience.
A partnership with Mac Allister could be perfect to give Szoboszlai a rest, or at least a spot on the bench, given his extensive playtime this season.
This competition seems tailor-made for Federico Chiesa. After providing two assists for Alexander Isak and Hugo Ekitike in last month's win over Southampton, the Italian is likely to start again on the right flank.
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However, there's an unexpected element in the form of Kieran Morrison, who was on the bench for Saturday's match against Brentford. The Northern Irish winger played a key role in all five goals during Wednesday afternoon's thrilling 5-4 victory over Frankfurt in the UEFA Youth League, led by Rob Page's young team.
On the other side, Rio Ngumoha, like Nyoni, is expected to play. Anfield officials have high expectations for the former Chelsea youngster, who has shown promising signs since pre-season, especially considering he only turned 17 at the end of August. This could be another opportunity for the England Under-19 international to showcase his talent.
The decision on who will lead the attack largely depends on the severity of Isak's groin issue. With Jayden Danns out due to a hamstring problem, Slot might consider giving Sweden international Isak some game time, similar to the Southampton match where he scored his only goal for the club so far.
If there are any concerns, however, Ekitike might once again be tasked with leading the line. Cody Gakpo and Mohamed Salah are also potential options if Slot prefers not to risk the France international, although both players would admittedly be playing out of their usual positions.
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