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Liverpool team news v Chelsea: Virgil van Dijk a surprise starter as Iraola makes seven changes

Liverpool turn their attention to the Carabao Cup on Wednesday night as they host Chelsea in the fourth round of the competition at Anfield. Two iconic former Reds in Xabi Alonso and Jordan Henderson return to L4 with the west…

Published: Wednesday, 28 October 2026 at 6:52 PM
Liverpool team news v Chelsea: Virgil van Dijk a surprise starter as Iraola makes seven changes
Key Things to Know
  • Andoni Iraola made seven changes to Liverpool's lineup against Chelsea, with Virgil van Dijk surprisingly starting.
  • Ronald Araujo, Ryan Gravenberch, and Cody Gakpo also retained their places in the starting eleven.
  • Giorgi Mamardashvili, Joe Gomez, Kostas Tsimikas, James McConnell, Trey Nyoni, Rio Ngumoha, and Lewis Koumas enter the lineup.
The Story in 60 Seconds

Andoni Iraola has made seven changes to Liverpool's starting lineup for their Carabao Cup fourth-round tie against Chelsea at Anfield. Despite the extensive rotation, captain Virgil van Dijk and Ronald Araujo both retained their starting spots in central defense. Giorgi Mamardashvili starts in goal, with Joe Gomez, Kostas Tsimikas, James McConnell, Trey Nyoni, Rio Ngumoha, and Lewis Koumas all introduced to the XI.

Liverpool's bench features key attacking options including Bradley Barcola, Florian Wirtz, and Alexander Isak. Former Liverpool figures Xabi Alonso and Jordan Henderson return to Anfield with Chelsea for the clash.

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