Liverpool’s newly appointed manager Andoni Iraola will target a third consecutive victory across all competitions when the club hosts Fulham at Anfield in Saturday’s Premier League encounter.
The fixture represents the middle game of a three-match homestand that began with the midweek Champions League success against Atletico Madrid, following the previous weekend’s league triumph at Ipswich Town.
Fulham arrive at Anfield in the midst of a difficult opening to their campaign, having suffered defeats in each of their opening three league matches.
The Cottagers are managed by former Liverpool defender Alvaro Arbeloa, who will be hoping to guide his side to a much-needed positive result against a team that has demonstrated impressive form in recent weeks.
Team selection decisions loom large for Iraola ahead of the contest.
Cody Gakpo missed the midweek European victory through illness, while new arrival Bradley Barcola was substituted during the second half after experiencing cramp during his first taste of Anfield action.
Both players will be assessed ahead of Saturday’s kick-off.
The expected lineup features Alisson Becker between the posts, with Ronald Araujo continuing at right-back after establishing himself as a fan favourite since arriving at the club.
Milos Kerkez retains his place at left-back ahead of Kostas Tsimikas, despite occasional uncertain performances in recent outings.
Captain Virgil van Dijk anchors the defensive unit alongside Jeremy Jacquet at centre-back.
The midfield configuration remains unchanged, with Alexis Mac Allister and Dominik Szoboszlai operating at the base of the formation while Florian Wirtz occupies the number ten position.
In attack, Victor Munoz is set to feature on the left flank, Barcola continues on the right, and Alexander Isak leads the line as the central striker.
Isak will be eager to add to his goal tally after failing to find the net in the previous fixture.
The schedule presents Liverpool with a quick turnaround, as a League Cup tie against Tottenham Hotspur at Anfield follows on Tuesday evening.
That contest is expected to prompt wholesale changes to the starting eleven, which could provide opportunities for squad players to demonstrate their credentials in competitive action.
Should Gakpo return to training, he may be required as a central striking option during the cup encounter, with the club possessing sufficient depth on the left flank to cover during that match.
Defensive solidity appears unlikely to be compromised for the Fulham fixture, as consistency in selection has proven beneficial during the recent winning run.
Szoboszlai and Mac Allister delivered notably improved performances in the second half against Atletico, establishing a platform for sustained success.
While Fulham have struggled defensively this term, they have demonstrated competence in attack, scoring twice in two separate league matches, which suggests Liverpool must remain alert at both ends of the pitch throughout the contest.