Mauricio Pochettino is likely to deploy an England-style 3-3-2-2 with Lucas Moura alongside Harry Kane. The Brazilian has perfected his new role, helping with build-up play before storming into goal-scoring positions.
Pochettino’s high-pressing will continue unabated against Liverpool, with the power and craft of a fine central midfield comprising Eric Dier, Mousa Dembele and Christian Eriksen. They will look to interrupt the opposition by cutting the supply lines to Liverpool’s front three and offer teammates a series of tactical breaks.
Wing-backs Ben Davies and Kieran Trippier will function as wide outlets, hoping to exploit the space Liverpool may leave open in its bid to defend the central areas with greater manpower.
Jurgen Klopp will order his midfielders to maintain close proximity to their counterparts and pressurise them into losing possession.
When the Reds have the ball, the midfielders will be asked to stay patient with their circulation, allowing them to spend more time in higher zones.
False-nine Roberto Firmino, with his energetic runs and ability to drag central defenders out of position, will help Mohamed Salah cut inside and create goals-scoring opportunities.
At the other end of the pitch, Virgil van Dijk, who has been impressive with his interceptions on the ground and his dominance in the air, will be the key to thwarting Trippier and Davies’ crosses.
