Fulham Vs. Liverpool, 2011 Premier League: Reds Inexplicably Thin In Midfield, Does Dalglish Have Answers?

Lucas Leiva is out for the season with a knee ligament injury and Steven Gerrard will not return to Liverpool until at least the holidays. Suddenly, a Liverpool side that was supposed to have more central midfielders than they knew what to do with is incredibly thin. Jay Spearing may now step into a pivotal role, and the injury to Lucas could also prompt a tactical switch that opens the door for Andy Carroll to get into the first XI. We'll see what Kenny Dalglish has planned later on Monday, when his side face Fulham at Craven Cottage.

Fulham have some injury issues of their own, though they've gotten some good news in the last week. Clint Dempsey and Bryan Ruiz, who were carrying slight knocks, should be fit for this match. Damien Duff and Moussa Dembele are both considered game-time decisions and are unlikely to start the match.