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Basel or Bust for Liverpool

Analysis of the importance of the Europa League to Liverpool's short and medium term future.

Basel or bust for Liverpool, has been on the lips of many Reds supporters for the last month. Anfield regulars and fans across the world have witnessed Liverpool’s top four hopes crushed by defeats to Southampton and Swansea in that time. The Europa League however has provided drama and hopes of silverware coupled with the elusive qualification into next season’s Champions League.

The magnificent quarter-final win over the favorites in the competition at that time, Borussia Dortmund, is the highlight of the Reds season so far. Another storied chapter in the Liverpool legend was written when Dejan Lovren headed home the all important winner. Jurgen Klopp is a romantic student of the game and its history, it is no surprise that he chose the legendary Anfield as his next coaching home. In studying his interviews and off the cuff remarks, it is clear that Klopp wants to add trophies to the successful history of the club. Reviving Liverpool to a team that can challenge for and win top honors on a regular basis can start in the Europa League Final in Basel.

Villarreal of course will have their own say in the destination of the famous former UEFA Cup trophy. The Spaniards scored the all important goal without conceding in the first leg at home. The La Liga side have a solid defensive record in their league, but it is doubtful they will have played in such a big game in a cauldron like Anfield. The Liverpool faithful will faithfully play the twelfth man role from the opening whistle, of that there is no doubt.

Tactically, Jurgen Klopp is more limited due to the suspension of Mamadou Sakho and injuries to Divock Origi and Jordan Henderson. The fitness of Emre Can is yet to be determined but a place at least on the bench would be a welcome return at the right time. The big question to be answered will be the Daniel Sturridge role. Sturridge of course, when fit, expects to start every game; but his track record of injuries and less intensive work rate, has seen Klopp opt for Roberto Firmino and Origi in European competition. The untimely injury to Origi does open the door for Sturridge to start, and in a game when Liverpool must simply outscore their opponents on aggregate over two legs, the potent Liverpool striker may well get the start.

Defensively, Liverpool have to find a way to keep a clean sheet. To expect repeated comebacks such as in the Dortmund match in big games is unrealistic. Klopp may well opt for a destroying style midfield spine with Joe Allen and Lucas to the fore in order to shield the backline. Simon Mignolet needs to have a concentrated performance in order to keep a clean sheet. The x factor in this match could prove to be Liverpool’s forgotten striker, Christian Benteke. Benteke if in the mood and given the minutes could prove to be a physical threat that the Spaniards would not be used to facing in La Liga. Klopp may well hold the Belgian in reserve for a later cameo from the bench, if goals and an  attacking aerial threat are required.

Klopp’s mission to restore Liverpool to a place of footballing dominance can be hastened in this seasons Europa League. His expected squad reshuffle would be aided by winning the trophy and building on an enhanced interest in Liverpool’s fortunes. Top class players are drawn to play for historically big clubs, but they also want to compete regularly in the Champions League. If Klopp can guide Liverpool to victory over Villarreal and complete the task in the Basel final, Liverpool will have more influence in obtaining top talent. Many of the current Liverpool players are also playing for their long term futures at the club. This combination of hunger for success and some healthy professional anxiety could propel the Reds to glory in Switzerland.

 

Main Photo: LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND – APRIL 14:  Dejan Lovren of Liverpool celebrates scoring his team’s fourth goal during the UEFA Europa League quarter final, second leg match between Liverpool and Borussia Dortmund at Anfield on April 14, 2016 in Liverpool, United Kingdom.  (Photo by Clive Brunskill/Getty Images)

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