Brendan Rodgers has revealed he is still unsure over Liverpool's defensive set-up, but praised Christian Benteke after the 2-0 victory over Swindon.
Martin Skrtel seems certain to reprise his role at the heart of the Reds' defence for the Premier League opener against Stoke on Sunday, but his partner on the day and for the season remains a mystery.
Dejan Lovren was criticised for his performances in his debut season at Anfield last campaign, but he was handed a starting role by Rodgers in the 2-0 friendly win over HJK Helsinki on Saturday.
Mamadou Sakho was then given the opportunity to impress 24 hours later against Swindon alongside captain Kolo Toure, but Rodgers remains uncertain over who will start alongside Skrtel this season.
Speaking before Sunday's friendly win, Rodgers told the Liverpool Echo: "It's not something I've totally decided upon yet. I'll sit down with the staff and we'll look at it next week.
"The key is getting consistency in that area of the field.
"Your two centre-halves are critical. They are the tactical decision makers in the game. That balance is important for us this season.
"We had too many defensive changes last year and that's not something that I like. Hopefully this season we'll be more consistent as a back four."
A stunning volley from Benteke on his first appearance in a Reds shirt and a late Sheyi Ojo goal rounded off Liverpool's pre-season preparations in style in Wiltshire, and Rodgers was full of praise for new signings Benteke and Roberto Firmino.
Concerning his two most-expensive summer purchases, the Northern Irishman said: "They are obviously a couple of weeks behind, but we can see their quality.
"Christian's goal was incredible. It was wonderful technique from the big guy
"Firmino's quality on the ball is positive. In and around the box he looked a threat, like he could score and create."
Rodgers added that Brazilian Firmino was "OK" after suffering a slight knock, while he "more or less" knows the make-up of his side against Stoke. Benteke will be in contention to make his full debut after the manager confirmed he would know "by the end of the week" whether the striker would be in his starting XI.
Rodgers also revealed midfielder Joe Allen was a doubt for next weekend's trip to Britannia Stadium after suffering a suspected hamstring strain.
"Joe Allen's injury doesn't look a good one - he felt his hamstring."
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