Nottingham Forest play Liverpool at Anfield today and ahead of the game, we’ve looked at a possible predicted team. The Reds are looking to win for the first time since September and face a home side bang in form.
The Reds have work to do to kick on during the 2023/24 campaign. Last weekend’s 2-2 draw against Luton has left Reds boss Steve Cooper with far more questions than answers.
Ahead of today’s game, we’ve chanced our arm at predicting how Cooper will line his team up. We think he could revert to a favoured style of play of his as Forest aim to make life difficult for Liverpool.
Predicted Nottingham Forest team to play Liverpool
The Forest rearguard
Matt Turner looks likely to keep his place in goal. Although Cooper may want to have a look at Odysseas Vlachodimos, it does seem unlikely that he will throw him in against Liverpool.
At the back, we think it will be three central defenders today. As a result, we expect Murillo to shuffle over and play in the middle of a three, flanked by Willy Boly on the right and Moussa Niakhate on the left.
The Forest engine room and wing-backs
A decision will need to be made here. Serge Aurier didn’t look fit last week and perhaps Cooper will take this opportunity to play with Ola Aina at right-sided wing-back instead.
On the left, Harry Toffolo has been playing well and it would be harsh to take him out of the equation. In April, Cooper praised Toffolo for his performance against Wolves and the head coach trusts his defender.
In midfield, there is no need for any changes at all. Orel Mangala, Nicolas Dominguez and Ibrahim Sangare have been working well together of late and they will keep their places today.
Leading the Forest line
Cooper would have wanted to play with a little more attacking intent. However, with Anthony Elanga rated as doubtful and Callum Hudson-Odoi’s injury being confirmed last week, it’s a case of needs must.
As a result, Morgan Gibbs-White will likely play in a busy number 10 role. His work rate is unrivalled in the Forest squad and some stats this week showcased that he is still creating chances.
In attack, it would be very harsh to drop Chris Wood. He scored twice last week and with Taiwo Awoniyi likely to only be fit enough for the bench and Divock Origi injured, again it’s a case of needs must.
Here is how the predicted Nottingham Forest team could look:
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