PSGvs.Liverpool

The Merseyside giants head into their showdown at Parc des Princes as one of the favourites to win the Champions League courtesy of topping the League Phase standings.

However, despite impressing in the new format, the Premier League leaders have been provided with one of the toughest possible tests in the last 16 of the competition.

With PSG having been required to compete in the knockout playoff round, Liverpool have been presented with what is perceived to be a favourable scenario of playing the second leg away from home.

Nevertheless, Slot has important decisions to make ahead of attempting to secure a first-leg advantage in the French capital.

Which players are at risk of suspension?

There are four players who are just one yellow card away from being suspended for next week's reverse fixture at Anfield.

Alexis Mac Allister has already received four yellow cards from his six appearances in the competition, serving a one-game ban versus Girona.

In the circumstances, Mac Allister also picked up a needless caution in the closing minutes versus Lille on matchday seven, Liverpool having already been assured of a top-eight place at this point.

Therefore, the Argentina international must come through Wednesday's encounter without collecting another yellow card if he wishes to avoid a second suspension.

Three more players one yellow away

Slot will also have concerns that Ibrahima Konate and Andrew Robertson are handed their third yellow cards of the campaign.

Losing Konate will be Slot's biggest concern with Joe Gomez sidelined through injury. Jarell Quansah is currently facing the prospect of potentially being required for the second leg.

Kostas Tsimikas has developed into a more suitable alternative to Robertson this season, yet Slot will want both of his left-backs available given that he likes to substitute players in that position on occasions at the back end of matches.

While Harvey Elliott is also at risk of being suspended for the second leg, the versatile midfielder is unlikely to start in Paris.

Written by

Darren Plant