3 Things to keep an eye on as Liverpool travel to Ajax in the Champions League
Despite their good form, United have a long way to go to bridge the gap to Jurgen Klopp's side.
Liverpool travel to Holland to take on Ajax in their first group match in the 2020/21 Champions League.
After failing to defend their 2019 title last year, Jurgen Klopp’s side have been given a tough opener on their return as they face 2019’s semi finalists.
The Reds will know this is the most difficult fixture of all their group games on paper, with Ajax the strongest side out of Atlanta and Midtjylland.
So with no fans in the Johan Cruijff Arena on tonight, what should supporters watch out for?
Here’s three things to keep an eye on as Liverpool look to gain three points against Ajax…
1. Liverpool’s Centre-Back Problem…
Not only did Klopp face the daunting prospect of months of football without club talisman Virgil van Dijk, the manager’s problems have worsened with news that Joel Matip has joined van Dijk on the treatment table. Tonight, the Reds will have to get creative with their backline, with Fabinho expected to partner Joe Gomez at centre back.
2. Firmino in the Champions League
Firmino is loved by Liverpool fans and is a popular figure at Anfield. Despite his ability to link up play and start moves for Liverpool, the Brazilian has managed very few goals and assists in the Premier League for quite some time now. However, it’s a very different story in Europe where Firmino has managed to be directly involved in 26 goals in 33 games in the Champions League. He will be hoping to keep that incredible form up tonight.
3. Ajax not happy at home…
Ajax have been one of Europe’s most exciting sides for the last three or four seasons. But some fans may not know, is at this current period the club are struggling at the Johan Cruijff Arena. Winning just one of their last seven home Champions League games. Jurgen Klopp will be desperate for his side to exploit Ajax’s vulnerability at home and secure the three points.