Paul Merson urges Jota and Alisson to be benched following PSG defeat.

Paul Merson believes Arne Slot should make two major lineup changes for Liverpool’s cup final following their European exit. Speaking to Sportskeeda, the former Arsenal player backed Darwin Nunez to start against Newcastle despite missing a penalty in the PSG shootout, arguing that his physicality and movement would trouble defenders more than Diogo Jota, who tends to drop deep.

Merson also suggested that Caoimhin Kelleher should start in goal instead of Alisson, given his impressive performances in cup competitions. He praised Kelleher as one of the best backup goalkeepers in the world and emphasized that it wouldn’t be a risk to play him, especially after his key role in Liverpool’s cup run.

With Alisson excelling against PSG and Jota struggling for form since returning from injury, Slot has some tough selection decisions to make. Luis Díaz and Cody Gakpo are also pushing for a starting spot, making the final lineup uncertain. Ultimately, Liverpool will hope whoever starts can help secure silverware at Wembley.