Liverpool put on an impressive performance as they beat Bournemouth comfortably, winning 4-0 on the weekend. Now they prepare for their Carabao Cup Semi Final Second Leg against Fulham.
With Liverpool’s strong position in the league and Europa League, many fans have put the idea of winning the Carabao Cup on the back burner, due to the quest to win the Premier League title.
However, winning a trophy early in the season, can be the catalyst of success for the Reds this season, like it has been recently in 2022.
Fulham stand in their way, and it’s not been an easy fixture for Liverpool in recent memory, having narrowly beating them twice this season, and their last visit to Craven Cottage ended in a 2-2 draw.
The Cottagers will also want to advance to the final, as they have never won a major trophy in the clubs history. Liverpool have the advantage in the tie, winning 2-1 at Anfield a few weeks back.
The importance of the competition can’t be understated for both clubs, as they look to make the first final of the season, but for Liverpool, early success can lead to even great things come the end of the campaign.
What this competition has offered for Jurgen Klopp since his arrival in England, is the opportunity to give young players the chance to get important first team minutes, whilst also giving more senior players the chance to get into rhythm.
In 2022, Takumi Minamino was the standout star for the club as he scored four goals in the competition, with one being a vital last minute equaliser against Leicester City as the Reds progressed to the Semi finals.
As for younger players, Kaide Gordon made a start in an important Semi Final clash at the Emirates, as Liverpool went on to win 2-0, but the most memorable was Caoimhin Keheller, who was Liverpool’s hero in a number of matches, including the final as he scored the crucial penalty, which was followed up by Kepa missing his penalty.
This time around, Cody Gakpo has been the goal getter for Liverpool, already matching Minamino’s goals. Elsewhere, Jarell Quansah has been handed minutes in the competition, and has been fantastic at the back. Leading to him starting in league fixtures as well.
For Liverpool, this gives important squad players the important minutes that are required so they are prepared for the business end of the season, and when Liverpool on the hunt for a possible four trophies, these minutes could be essential.
Liverpool have a tough task of beating Fulham first, but if they can overcome them, they will set themselves up for a place at Wembley. The pleasure it can provide to the players, staff and fans can be hugely important to Liverpool as they look to battle on all fronts for the rest of the season, and the winning this competition can put it in motion.
Final Whistle 