What We Gotta Do?: AA's Swansea Preview

UK: 8:00PM BST-No Coverage Available

US: 4:00PM EST (Due to Time Change)-BeIN Sports

Liverpool's primary objective of winning a trophy will be tested against a tough Swansea side, as the Reds look to book a place in the quarterfinals on Tuesday at Anfield.

American Marc Pelosi trained with the first team this past week amid speculation that he could be involved in tomorrow's match, as the same was the case for Jordan Rossiter and Jordan Williams in the last round against Middlesbrough.

It would be nice from an American standpoint to see him play, and of course it would be a big night for him, as just a few months ago the youngster from California was on the sidelines following a horrific leg break.

Assistant Manager Colin Pascoe was kind enough to give an update on Mamadou Sakho's fitness, and shared that he'll still be out for "a couple more weeks." There are no new injury concerns, but Jon Flanagan continues to recover from surgery early on in pre-season, and Daniel Sturridge remains out with a thigh problem.

Mario Balotelli must be wondering what it takes for him to score, and may start tomorrow in order to give him another chance to break his duck.

The back four who played against Hull did admirably despite the attack's shortcomings, and one wonders if they'll all start together again in order to improve understanding on the pitch.

Rickie Lambert played well up top with Mario when he was introduced against Hull, and the two striker approach might be what we return to, whether it be Rickie or out of favor Fabio Borini up front with Balotelli.

Jordan Henderson was rested for the match against Hull, but may get his first crack at the Liverpool armband as Steven Gerrard has played in every match so far this season, and Brendan may be looking to give Captain Fantastic a rest ahead of a crucial tie against Newcastle at St. James's Park at the weekend.

Swansea's form in the Premier League has left something to be desired, but in the cup Swansea have beaten our crosstown rivals Everton 3-0 and Rotherham 1-0.

Wilfried Bony seems to have found at least a bit of his footing, scoring two against Leicester at the weekend, and the Ivorian is always a threat no matter who the Swans are playing.

Usually against Swansea, the midfield is where the game is won and lost. Liverpool will be required to keep possession and pass the ball around quickly, so a fast start is required. Don't be surprised, with the strains that the possession game will require, if Joe Allen starts in midfield in order to keep possession away from his former employers.

Other Thoughts:

-Pelosi, if he does play, can be employed in midfield, on the wing, or even at left back. He's known for his pace, which may help the front two and give Raheem a wee break. (Johnathan)

-And as I just said, we need to play a front two. I think Borini'd actually be a good shout for this game. This is the kinda games you want him in, with Balotelli partnering him. (Johnathan)

-The back four used against Hull need not change in personnel or in mindset. They did a lot right and need to build on that. (Johnathan)

-This game is much more important to Swansea than to Liverpool, so the Reds must be wary of the upset. (Dan)