Alisson ruled out of Liverpool's clash with Brighton through illness

The Brazil international has started 18 of the reigning champions' 21 top-flight games this term, keeping five clean sheets.

However, he will play no part against Brighton at Anfield, a game which comes four days before the Reds face league leaders Manchester City.

Caoimhin Kelleher, who had featured just once previously for Liverpool in the Premier League, was drafted in as his replacement.

Liverpool triumphed in just one of the three previous league games Alisson missed, conceding an average of three goals against in those matches.

???? ????Here's how the Reds line-up to face @OfficialBHAFC...#LIVBHA

— Liverpool FC (@LFC) February 3, 2021

That compares to an average of 0.8 goals against in the 18 games Alisson has started, of which the Reds have won 10, drawn six and lost two.

The only other change made by Jurgen Klopp from the 3-1 win over West Ham at the weekend was up top, Roberto Firmino coming in for Divock Origi.

Ben Davies, signed from Preston North End on deadline day, was named among the substitutes, though fellow new defender Ozan Kabak was not included in the matchday squad.