Vincenzo Italiano explains his surprise Bologna pick upfront for the Champions League clash with Liverpool, assuring they can ‘have our say’ at Anfield.
It kicks off at Anfield at 20.00 UK time (19.00 GMT).
You can follow all the build-up and action as it happens from this game, RB Leipzig-Juventus and Shakhtar Donetsk-Atalanta on the Liveblog.
There had been doubts for the starting XI with reports top scorer Santiago Castro was carrying a knock, so is that why Thijs Dallinga is given the nod upfront this evening?
“Castro is fine, he has recovered, but had this bruise to the calf, whereas Dallinga is at 100 per cent,” Italiano told Sky Sport Italia.
“With so many games close together, Dallinga can show his quality and already did well in Liverpool.”
The 24-year-old Dutch player has scored in both his previous meetings with the Reds, representing FC Toulouse in the Europa League matches in the 2023-24 season.
Those were a 5-1 away defeat and 3-2 home victory.
Italiano trusts Bologna can worry Liverpool
Anfield is a new arena to Italiano and most of the Bologna players, but they can take heart from the fact Atalanta won here last season in the Europa League.
“The first time is emotional, because this is a grandiose stage to play on, but once the opening whistle blows, then the battle begins. The objective today is to grow as a team,” said the coach.
“We must try to play well, transmit enthusiasm and confidence to everyone in the team. We are facing a great opponent, but we can have our say.”
Bologna began their Champions League campaign with a 0-0 draw at home to Shakhtar Donetsk, whereas Liverpool beat Milan 3-1 at San Siro.