Luis Diaz tipped to start v Benfica after ‘last-minute’ Liverpool reveal – Whelan
Noel Whelan has backed Luis Diaz to start as Liverpool face Benfica in the Champions League quarter-final first leg tomorrow.
The former Leeds striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, suggested the 25-year-old could benefit if Jurgen Klopp looks to rest a big name with one eye on Sunday’s (10 April) league clash against Man City.
Diaz was an unused substitute as Liverpool recorded a 2-0 victory over Watford at Anfield on Saturday (2 April).
As quoted by the Mirror pre-match, Klopp revealed it was a “last-minute” decision to leave the winger out of the side after he returned late from international duty.
Benfica are a familiar foe for Diaz – with the former Porto star unbeaten in seven games against the Lisbon giants.
Whelan claimed “a few” players could be rested for tomorrow’s (5 April) game.
“He’s been a joy to watch since coming in,” he told Football Insider‘s Ewan Kingsbury.
“Most importantly, he’s a similar player to what they have either side in Salah and Mane, so not much needs to change tactically.
“He’s got a real case to start. Especially with the game against City on the horizon, we could see a few players rested.
“But it will still be a competitive side, of course. They’ll want to get off to a good start in this tie.
“The game time could be important for him because you need him match fit and raring to go ahead of this run-in.”
Liverpool can go top of the Premier League if they defeat Man City at the Etihad Stadium on Sunday.
Diaz has scored two goals in 12 games since joining the Reds in January.
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