Liverpool Start Five Youth Players Against Arsenal in League Cup

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As expected, Liverpool are fielding a young side against the Gunners tonight.

Liverpool were expected to run out a wholly changed side with a focus on youth against Arsenal in the League Cup and, with the teamsheets announced, are doing just that with five players 20 years old or younger set to start.

Having started on the bench on the weekend, the versatile James Milner will captain the side today while filling in for Andy Robrertson at left back while on the right there is a full debut for 18-year-old Welsh academy graduate Neco Williams.

As previously reported, he will be joined by Caoimhin Kelleher in goal, as with regular backup Adrian having seen plenty of action already this season filling in for the injured Alisson, the club are seeking to use the cup to develop the 20-year-old.

The team will be rounded out with Sepp van den Berg partnering Joe Gomez in defence and a youthful attack that sees a pair of youth stars in Harvey Elliott and Rhian Brewster up top alongside Champions League hero Divock Origi.

Midfield, then, is a little more experienced with Adam Lallana, Naby Keïta, and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain all in need of playing time and starting. Meanwhile, outside of goalkeeper Adrian, there isn’t a single regular senior player on the bench tonight.

Meanwhile, on paper Arsenal are fielding a slightly more experienced side, with three youngsters—18-year-olds Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli, and 20-year-old Joe Willock—sprinkled into the midfield and attack.

Source: liverpooloffside.sbnation.com