Liverpool - Watford Preview: Klopp set to rest stars in lead-up to Europa League final

After another memorable European night on Thursday, where Liverpool booked their place in the Europa League final following a 3-0 win over Villarreal, the Reds return to Premier League action as they look to climb the table in the final few games.

A win for Quique Sánchez Flores’ men could see them leap up to 11th and will go into the game in high spirits as they beat the Reds in the reverse fixture 3-0 at Vicarage Road.

Jürgen Klopp has said that he will rest stars in the games leading up to the final, to try and ensure his strongest possible team for the final which takes place on the 18th of May in Basel.

They can guarantee at least a berth in next year's Europa League should they finish 7th in the league, but will make the Champions League should they beat Sevilla in Switzerland later this month.

Team News

Liverpool were boosted by the news that Jordan Henderson, Divock Origi and Danny Ings could return before the end of the season, but neither will take any part tomorrow.

Players such as Kevin Stewart, Sheyi Ojo, Jordon Ibe and Martin Skrtel are all expected to feature in the game. Danny Ward may also be given the opportunity to earn his third appearance of the season.

Klopp will play a weakened side against Watford, given their other priorities. (Picture: Getty Images)

Watford could be unchanged after beating Aston Villa last weekend, with two dramatic late goals from Troy Deeney.

Allan Nyom and Nathan Ake are pushing for recalls but Etienne Capoue remains sidelined with a knee injury.

The Opposition

Manager Quique Flores is under some surprising pressure, with rumours he could be sacked at the end of the season, despite reaching the FA Cup semi-final and successfully avoiding the drop.

Watford could still finish a respectable 11th but it may not be enough to save the manager his job ahead of what will be a dramatic finish to the season, off the pitch more than on it.