Liverpool will host Accrington Stanley at Anfield this Saturday for their third-round FA Cup clash. While this will be an unfamiliar fixture for many Liverpool fans, the Reds have a perfect head-to-head record against the League Two side, having previously faced them in an FA Cup tie back in 1956. With Liverpool’s manager, Arne Slot, at the helm for his first FA Cup match, all eyes will be on how he approaches this game, especially following a difficult start to the new year.
In this article, we’ll delve into the likely changes Slot will make to his starting XI and explore how Liverpool could line up against Accrington Stanley, with the Reds expected to make significant changes to give some of their fringe players a chance to impress. Let’s take a closer look at how Liverpool could approach this FA Cup third-round match.
Liverpool’s FA Cup Priorities and the Importance of Rotation
After a challenging start to the year, Liverpool will be looking to bounce back with a dominant performance in the FA Cup, ensuring they progress to the fourth round. Arne Slot, who joined the club in 2024, will want to use this opportunity to experiment with his squad and provide players who have been on the fringes of the first team with valuable minutes. The FA Cup offers the perfect stage for these players to prove their worth, and it’s likely that Slot will rotate his lineup to keep his main stars fresh for the more demanding fixtures ahead in the Premier League.
With a busy schedule looming, particularly a Premier League trip to Nottingham Forest on Tuesday following this FA Cup encounter, Liverpool’s manager will be mindful of managing player fatigue and injuries. Given Accrington’s position in the lower leagues, Liverpool should have more than enough quality to secure the win, even with a rotated lineup. However, the Reds can’t afford to take the match lightly, as underestimating any opponent, especially in the cup, can lead to unforeseen problems.
Liverpool Predicted Lineup vs Accrington: A Tactical Overview
Formation: 4-2-3-1
Arne Slot has shown a preference for a 4-2-3-1 formation since taking charge at Anfield. This tactical setup allows for solid defensive cover with two deep-lying midfielders, while also providing creativity and width in attack through the three attacking midfielders and a lone striker. The 4-2-3-1 formation suits Liverpool’s attacking style of play and should work well in this match, particularly with players who are expected to be more mobile and direct against Accrington.
Here is how Liverpool could line up against Accrington Stanley:
Goalkeeper: Caoimhin Kelleher
Caoimhin Kelleher is likely to be the goalkeeper for this FA Cup clash. The Irish shot-stopper has featured in cup competitions over the past seasons and will be keen to make an impression, especially as Liverpool’s backup keeper. He didn’t retain his starting place for the Premier League match against Tottenham recently, but the FA Cup presents the perfect opportunity for him to get some game time. Kelleher will be eager to keep a clean sheet, and with Accrington’s lower-league status, he should have a relatively straightforward game to manage.
Right-Back: Conor Bradley
With the Premier League and other competitions demanding quick turnarounds, Conor Bradley is likely to be given the nod at right-back. The young Northern Ireland international has been a solid backup option for Liverpool and is expected to start in place of Trent Alexander-Arnold. This will also give Alexander-Arnold the necessary rest ahead of Liverpool’s upcoming fixtures. Bradley has shown glimpses of his potential in previous appearances and will be looking to build on that as he steps in for the first team in this FA Cup tie.
Centre-Backs: Ibrahima Konate and Wataru Endo
Liverpool’s central defense is likely to feature Ibrahima Konate and Wataru Endo due to injury and illness concerns. Joe Gomez is sidelined with an injury, while Jarell Quansah is ill, leaving Konate as the most experienced option in defense. Endo, who has already filled in at centre-back this season on occasion, is expected to partner Konate. The Japan international was used in a similar role during the defeat to Tottenham and performed admirably. With few alternative options available, Endo could be tasked with filling in at centre-back again, offering some much-needed depth in this department.
Left-Back: Andy Robertson
Liverpool’s left-back situation is slightly more straightforward, with Andy Robertson likely to start in place of Kostas Tsimikas. Robertson had a rare spell on the bench in recent weeks, but with Tsimikas featuring in midweek action, the Scotland international should return to the lineup for this FA Cup clash. Despite questions about his form recently, Robertson’s experience and ability to influence the game from left-back make him a key player in matches like this. He will be looking to regain his best form and provide width in the attack against Accrington.
Defensive Midfielders: Tyler Morton and Trey Nyoni
In midfield, Tyler Morton and Trey Nyoni are expected to play as the two deep-lying midfielders. Morton impressed during his loan spell last season and has been given the opportunity to feature in the Carabao Cup under Slot. He will be looking to cement his place as a reliable backup option for the Reds. Morton’s vision, passing, and ability to control the tempo of the game make him a strong candidate for this tie.
Alongside Morton, Trey Nyoni, a 17-year-old talent, will likely get another chance to shine. Nyoni has made a few appearances for Liverpool already and has impressed with his technical ability and maturity on the ball. This will be an excellent opportunity for Nyoni to showcase his potential in a competitive match.
Right-Wing: Federico Chiesa
One player who will be looking to make an impact is Federico Chiesa. The winger has struggled with injuries since joining Liverpool, but this FA Cup tie could provide him with the perfect chance to get on the scoresheet and find some form. Despite a slow start to his Anfield career, Chiesa remains a highly talented player, and a goal against Accrington would help him build confidence for the remainder of the season. With competition for places on the wing at Liverpool, Chiesa will need to make the most of every opportunity he gets.
Attacking Midfield: Harvey Elliott
Harvey Elliott is another player who has been on the periphery of the first team lately. An early-season injury limited his playing time, but he has proved to be effective when given the chance. Elliott will likely start as the central attacking midfielder, where he can use his creativity and vision to influence the game. With only nine appearances this season, most of which have come off the bench, Elliott will be eager to show his worth and push for more playing time in the league.
Left-Wing: Luis Diaz
Luis Diaz is expected to start on the left-wing in this FA Cup tie. Diaz only played for half an hour against Tottenham in midweek, so he will be well-rested and ready to make an impact. With many of Liverpool’s academy forwards out on loan, Diaz’s presence in the starting lineup is crucial. His pace and dribbling skills will be key to breaking down Accrington’s defense. A strong performance could give Diaz the momentum he needs to secure a regular spot in the first team.
Striker: Darwin Nunez
Finally, Darwin Nunez will lead the line for Liverpool. Nunez has struggled for consistency this season, with only four goals and three assists in 25 appearances, but the FA Cup offers him a chance to rediscover his form. The Uruguayan has shown flashes of brilliance, and a goal against Accrington could help boost his confidence. Nunez will be looking to prove himself to Arne Slot and the Liverpool fans, and he’ll be hoping to deliver a strong performance in this game.
Conclusion
Liverpool’s predicted lineup against Accrington Stanley in the FA Cup third round is set to feature a mix of fringe players and regular starters, with Arne Slot likely making several changes to his lineup following a difficult start to the new year. The FA Cup presents an opportunity for players like Caoimhin Kelleher, Conor Bradley, and Harvey Elliott to stake their claim for more first-team action, while more established players such as Andy Robertson and Ibrahima Konate will provide experience and leadership.
Liverpool should have more than enough quality to beat Accrington Stanley, but they will need to take the game seriously and avoid any complacency. With rotation likely to continue throughout the competition, Slot will be keen to progress to the next round while giving his squad players the chance to shine.
