Liverpool had a setback in the previous Europa League match against Toulouse, losing 3-2. This loss prevented them from sealing first place in the group. Now, they need to avoid defeat to confirm a top-two finish. A win would not only secure their eighth consecutive victory at Anfield in the Europa League but also guarantee first place if Toulouse fails to beat Union SG.
Despite a recent draw against Manchester City, Liverpool remains in a strong position. However, they have only a two-point lead over Toulouse, which means they could end up in the knockout round playoffs if they don't secure the necessary points.
On the other hand, LASK Linz still holds a glimmer of hope after an unexpected 3-0 victory against Union SG in the last matchday. Currently, only one point separates them from third place. If they can pull off a surprise win against Liverpool, they might revive their chances of progressing. However, a defeat, combined with a Union SG victory, would likely see them finish last in the group.
LASK Linz recently secured a 1-0 victory in the Austrian Bundesliga, indicating they are not to be underestimated. Despite Liverpool's come-from-behind triumph in their previous encounter, LASK Linz will be looking to capitalize on any opportunity to keep their Europa League dreams alive.
INJURIES & SUSPENSION
Liverpool's usual dependable goalkeeper, Alisson, had an off day in the match against Man City and even seemed to have picked up a hamstring injury towards the end of the draw. Adding to the injury list, Diogo Jota will be unavailable due to a leg problem. In his absence, Luis Diaz is likely to return to the attack, and Caoimhin Kelleher was already expected to start instead of Alisson.Liverpool's injury concerns extend beyond the goal, with Thiago Alcantara (hip), Stefan Bajcetic (calf), and Andrew Robertson (shoulder) dealing with long-term issues. However, Ryan Gravenberch, Joe Gomez, and Ibrahima Konate, who recovered from their recent knocks, might be included in the lineup after making the bench in the previous game.
On the LASK Linz side, they too have three players missing, including Ebrima Darboe, who is on loan from Roma and sat out the double-header against Union SG due to an unspecified injury.
Adil Taoui is still on the path to recovery from a cruciate ligament injury, and centre-back Philipp Wiesinger is also unavailable. Despite these absences, minimal changes are expected from LASK Linz, as nine of the players who started in their 3-0 victory over Union SG were also in the lineup against WSG Tirol.
Although Horvath and left-back Rene Renner missed the latter match due to illness, they are likely to be fit for Thursday's game.
POSSIBLE LINE UPS
Liverpool possible starting lineup:Kelleher; Alexander-Arnold, Konate, Quansah, Gomez; Elliott, Endo, Gravenberch; Doak, Gakpo, Diaz
LASK Linz possible starting lineup:
Lawal; Andrade, Talovyerov, Ziereis; Stojkovic, Horvath, Ljubic, Bello; Ljubicic, Zulj, Usor
EXPERT PREDICTION
Liverpool 3-0 LASK Linz
Despite LASK Linz's aggressive strategy, this could leave gaps for Liverpool's dynamic attackers to capitalize on. As a result, the Reds are expected to handle the situation comfortably and secure a victory to advance to the knockout rounds.
