Three selection headaches for Jurgen Klopp ahead of Liverpool’s clash with Brighton

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After labouring to a convincing win over Crystal Palace, Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp has decisions to make ahead of returning to Merseyside and facing Brighton & Hove Albion on Saturday in the late kick-off.

The Reds have remained unchanged in their two Premier League games to date, but the German could make changes to his side in the third league fixture of the campaign despite two consecutive defeats without conceding.

Here are some of the toughest calls that he may have to make…

Should Georgino Wijnaldum continue in midfield?

Few expected Georgino Wijnaldum to be starting both of Liverpool’s first two Premier League fixtures after the signings made this summer, and with Jordan Henderson having built up fitness after returning to training late after the World Cup and with Fabinho itching to make his debut, the Dutchman is under pressure.

It would be harsh to say that the former Newcastle man has put a foot wrong in his two appearances to date, in fact he was one of the stand out performers at Selhurst Park, but he knows that retaining his place won’t be easy.

Could Dejan Lovren return?

Dejan Lovren’s call up for the Croatia squad has led to speculation that a Liverpool return may be imminent after a spell on the sidelines with a stomach problem. Joe Gomez was impressive against West Ham and again against Crystal Palace, but knows that Lovren may surpass him upon his return.

With Joel Matip also returning to the bench on Monday night, Klopp has a decision to make in central defence alongside Virgil Van Dijk, even if it is too soon for Lovren to come into the team.

An opportunity to rest?

It may still be early on in the campaign, but Brighton & Hove Albion at Anfield should, on paper, be one of the easier fixtures on Liverpool’s calendar. Providing a rest to the likes of Mohamed Salah and Sadio Mane, who have come straight from a World Cup campaign, may be an investment for the long term.

With the likes of Jordan Henderson, Xherdan Shaqiri and Daniel Sturridge all on the bench and itching to get on, Klopp could consider making some changes to a team which he is yet to alter in the Premier League.