It has been a season of disruption and disappointment for Premier League champions Liverpool.
After ending their long wait for a top-flight title last season, hopes were high that they could once again compete at the top of the table.
But a series of significant injuries have left the Reds short of quality, particularly at the back, with talisman Virgil van Dijk missing almost the entirety of the campaign.
With eight league games to go, there is a still a serious chance of finishing in the top four, which, when all said and done would mark a satisfactory season.
However, with Jurgen Klopp’s men trailling champions-elect Manchester City by 25 points it is likely that changes to the playing staff will take place.
(Image: AFP via Getty Images)
The merger between owners FSG and RedBird mean they could be active in the transfer market.
But due to the current financial climate, a certain number of players could be moved on.
Here Mirror Sport looks at six players Liverpool that will serve as the basis to any potential evolution of Klopp’s side.
Alisson
(Image: Pool via REUTERS)
When the Brazilian made two high-profile errors against Man City, there was a genuine state of shock towards a ‘keeper who has barely had one mistep since moving to English football.
He hasn’t quite been at his best all season, but there is no doubt he is still one the top five goalkeepers in European football.
Virgil van Dijk
(Image: Liverpool FC via Getty Images)
Just as the old saying goes ‘absence makes the heart grow fonder’.
When Van Dijk hobbled out of the Merseyside derby in October few could have envisioned just how much of an impact it would have on Liverpool as a team.
Not just defensively either. The faultless Dutchman brings an air of calm to the Reds in possession as well and allows the full-backs to flourish.
His return will be one of the biggest positives any Liverpool could wish for this summer.
Andy Robertson
(Image: Getty Images)
Trent Alexander-Arnold’s up –and-down form has perhaps only heightened the appreciation for his colleague on the opposite flank.
Robertson is unquestionably one of the best full-backs in the modern game and will continue to be a key part of anything Liverpool look to do moving forward.
Fabinho
(Image: Pool via REUTERS)
Whether it’s in centre midfield or at the heart of defence, Fabinho continues to show he’s one of the most impressive players in Klopp’s squad.
Deputising for Van Dijk at the back, the Brazilian looked an accomplished midfielder, while his return to midfield only served as a reminder to his quality in that position.
Versatility is an admired trait and Fabinho has that quality in spades.
Jordan Henderson
(Image: Laurence Griffiths/POOL/EPA-EFE/REX/Shutterstock)
Another player that shown his willingness to move for the sake of the team, Henderson remains a crucial part of the heartbeat of this Liverpool side.
His recent injury has been another that has exposed just how important he is to Jurgen Klopp.
With the imminent exit of Gini Wijnaldum, his vital role is only set to increase further.
Mohamed Salah
(Image: Pool via REUTERS)
While links to Real Madrid persist, Salah remains one of the most prolific forwards in European football.
At times, he hasn’t looked his best, but while Roberto Firmino and Sadio Mane have struggled for goals, Salah has remained in the action.
At the age of 28, there is a chance the Egyptian will be looking for one more big move, but in a summer that could see changes, keeping him at the club could be pivotal.
Notable mentions…
While the six selected make up the spine of the Liverpool side, there are other players still vital to the project.
Alexander-Arnold, Mane and Firmino have all struggled for form at times this campaign, while Diogo Jota and Thiago Alcantara could both become sure-fire starters by the start of next campaign.
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