Liverpool FC: A Starting XI to Beat Manchester City at Anfield on Sunday

A convincing win against London rivals Chelsea on Sunday has given Liverpool the belief needed to overcome pace-setters Manchester City when the Sky Blues travel to Anfield this weekend. Both clubs will be keen for a win, but it's the Merseyside club that is in more need of three points.

For this reason, Kenny Dalglish will hold no one back from the fray as he bids to beat Manchester City at Anfield for the second time.

Steven Gerrard is unlikely to feature, but there are no fresh injury concerns for the Reds.

So, here is my hypothetical starting XI with a short justification.

GK: Pepe Reina

This one's a no-brainer. The Spaniard will have to be at his best again to keep Manchester City out.

RB: Glen Johnson

Glen Johnson reminded me of why he should start above Martin Kelly on Sunday when a moment of brilliance gave the Reds three points. Though he will be troubled defensively, Johnson should start because the Reds will need all the offensive power they have.

Centre-Backs: Martin Skrtel and Daniel Agger

Daniel Agger and Martin Skrtel are forging a partnership that is solid enough to keep Jamie Carragher out of the starting lineup. The two had good games against Chelsea and will have to give it their all again to keep out whoever plays up front.

LB: Jose Enrique

Jose Enrique has been consistent thus far and will be tasked with dealing with the threat of David Silva or Adam Johnson. He will also have to be able to run his heart out as he will be tasked with overlapping the wingers and getting crosses in.

Defensive Midfielder: Lucas Leiva

Lucas Leiva has been one of Liverpool's most consistent performers and he will be played just above the defensive line, providing cover and distributing the play when necessary. He will have a tough day as he will have to deal with the likes of Balotelli, Aguero and Silva, but it shouldn't be too much for the Brazilian to handle.

Central Midfielder: Charlie Adam

Charlie Adam's improved form has given Liverpool a real reason to be optimistic. His passing will be key if Liverpool are to break down Manchester City's defence, His set pieces, too, will be hugely important in deciding the outcome of the match.

Should Andy Carroll play in the latter stages of the match, the Scott will be responsible for bombarding the city box with long balls for the target man.

Adam will also have to help Lucas nullify the threat of City's creative players.

Central Midfielder: Jordan Henderson

Jordan Henderson played well in his cameo performance against Chelsea and would start if I managed Liverpool. For me, he is the best replacement for Steven Gerrard and should start just to keep possession.

He too would be expected to defend, but would also be given the license to support the front three.

A common criticism of Henderson is the fact that he is more likely to play the percentage of keeping the ball than try and move the the team forward. However, against Chelsea, the youngster was much more willing to advance and showcase his passing skills.

RW: Craig Bellamy

Craig Bellamy had a great game against Chelsea and was instrumental in the Reds' first goal. He and Suarez really seem to understand each other's movements and give the defence a handful. He would provide pace down the right, but would also be tasked with playing centrally to support Suarez when necessary.

LW: Maxi Rodriguez

Stewart Downing has been below par as of yet and handing a starting place to Maxi would give the England international the message he needs—buck your ideas up.

But Maxi has also done well when he has played. The Argentinian netted against Chelsea last week and a goal this Sunday would be priceless.

ST: Luis Suarez

No debate about this one, really. I would expect the front three to be given the license to interchange at will just to confuse the City defence.