Pre-match Stoke V Liverpool League Cup semi-final 1st leg, 5th Jan 20.00

Hard to tell which way Klopp will line up. If Benteke starts, then I think Smith has to start as well. I also like the idea of Smith and Moreno starting, as they both are a tad soft on the defensive side and are lining up against Shaquiri, who I've always rated and wanted to see here. If Benteke is dropped (which I hope he is, as he was handled easily by Collins vs. West Ham. Surely, Shawcross and company will handle hi even more easily) and Firmino up top, then I want to see Ibe, Couts and Lallana behind him, with all of them willing to move and interchange with each other. This one is making me very nervous if I'm being honest.

One of the standouts in pre-season the past couple years.

Probably more likely to feature against Exeter though, i'd guess.

Quite probably mate.

Kent was watching the U21 game so I don't think he'll be in the squad tonight. Hopefully he'll get a chance against Exeter on Friday.

Was he?  Well that kyboshes my theory then 

Hard to tell which way Klopp will line up. If Benteke starts, then I think Smith has to start as well.

This ! It's bad enough that Benteke doesn't move but when he does find space, 9/10 Moreno's cross finds the first defender. Smith has to be the one raiding forward from the full back spot if we are going with Benteke.

Ironically, benzene evaporates in the air. Much like our Christian.

That's the best laugh I've had all day. I really am worried about tonight's game, our team is screaming out for a pacy striker :-(

Benteke on the bench, Lucas, Allen and Can in midfield.