Liverpool vs Chelsea: Combined XI - Premier League 2020-21

Defensive midfield: Mateo Kovacic (Chelsea)

The Chelsea midfielder Mateo Kovacic narrowly edges Fabinho out, primarily because the Liverpool lynchpin has spent most of his time in central defence owing to his club's injury crisis.

Fabinho is also currently injured, while Mateo Kovacic has continued to blossom at Stamford Bridge both under Frank Lampard and now Thomas Tuchel.

The former Real Madrid man has started fulfiling the promise he showed in his early career and has morphed into one of the best holding midfielders in the Premier League.

Central Midfield: Jordan Henderson (Liverpool)

Jordan Henderson has been a revelation for Liverpool in the centre of the park. Despite not getting as much reverence as some of his more illustrious teammates, proof of the England international's importance lies in the fact that he was named the PFA Player of the Year in 2020.

The last few weeks have seen Liverpool's 30-year-old spend most of his time marshalling the defence, but he has gone about his job with minimum fuss despite playing in an unfamiliar position.

Nevertheless, the Liverpool captain still has the edge over other Chelsea midfielders and will also act as the skipper of the hypothetical combined XI.

Attacking Midfield: Mason Mount (Chelsea)

Frank Lampard was often criticised for overplaying Mason Mount, with many seeing his preferential treatment to his former Derby County prodigy as untenable. However, those criticisms have turned out to be largely unfounded, as Mason Mount is undoubtedly one of the most important players at Chelsea.

The England international might be lacking in the usual flair and technique associated with players in his position. But he makes up for that with his tireless work rate and business-like conduct on the field.

Criticism of his lack of technique is also greatly exaggerated, as the 22-year-old has considerably improved his passing and crossing ability. That is evident in his seven goal-contributions he has registered this season.

There was widespread belief that the appointment of Tuchel would see Mount lose his 'untouchable' status at Chelsea. But after getting benched in his first game in charge, the German tactician has realized Mount's importance at Stamford Bridge.

It says a lot about Mount's meteoric rise that he is able to keep out serial winner Thiago Alcantara as well as Chelsea's most expensive player Kai Havertz out of the starting lineup.

About the author

Elvis is a seasoned football journalist and has been with Sportskeeda for more than 6 years. He specializes in writing match previews across several leagues and competitions around the world, and his insightful tips have amassed a total readership in excess of 9.2 million till date. Elvis' meticulous attention to detail and strictly following SK's editorial guidelines have been key to achieving a vast readership. He has also exclusively covered the 2021 Nigerian Universiy Games and has provided research for an upcoming biography for a Nigerian football legend.

Elvis has been a Super Eagles fan since 2004, and them beating defending champions Cameroon in the AFCON that year left a lasting impact on him. He supports Sporting Lagos at club level and loves to watch games live at the Onikan Stadium due to its buzzing atmosphere. His favorite football players are former Nigerian forward, Osaze Odemwingie and former Real Madrid legend Raul Gonzalez.

If Elvis could change one football rule, it would be to not be booked for celebrating with pitch side fans. He believes that football is a passionate game and celebrations should be encouraged to the fullest. When not analyzing the latest previews, Elvis indulges in activities such as swimming, reading, and karaoke.

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Edited by Bhargav