Daniel Sturridge starts his first Premier League game in over two months as he leads Liverpool’s attack against Sunderland at the Stadium of Light.
The England international comes into the first 11 with captain Jordan Henderson, nursing pain in his heel, dropping out of the matchday squad for the test at his boyhood club.
Sturridge’s last run out from the off in the top-flight was the goalless draw against Manchester United at Anfield 77 days ago.
That alteration is the only one Jurgen Klopp has made to the XI that defeated Pep Guardiola’s men 1-0 on Saturday evening.
With limited time to train or discuss tactical details between the hosting of Manchester City - an exacting fixture - and the encounter against David Moyes’ men, the Reds boss has opted against rotation.
Sturridge remained on the bench as Liverpool ended 2016 with victory and will be determined to ensure he plays a fundamental part in starting the new year the same way.
Liverpool starting XI: Mignolet, Clyne, Klavan, Lovren, Milner, Can, Wijnaldum, Lallana, Mane, Firmino, Sturridge
Liverpool bench: Karius, Moreno, Lucas, Alexander-Arnold, Stewart, Ejaria, Origi
