The ambitious pursuit to finish in the top 4 continues for Liverpool as they travel to St. Mary’s to face Southampton on Sunday for their 29th game of the season. The Reds and The Saints share the same number of points and a win on the road can take Liverpool ahead of Southampton in the league standings. The Reds can secure a position which is at par with Manchester United and just 4 points behind Manchester City who are placed 4th currently. The last time these two met, Liverpool had demolished Southampton with a thumping victory of 6-1.
Team News
For Southampton, Saints’ appeal against Mane’s red card in the Stoke City game has been upheld and the Senegalese striker is expected to start the game. For Liverpool, James Milner is fit from his illness and should make a start. Here is a predicted line-up for the game.
Formation: 4-2-2-2
GK: Simon Mignolet
Defense: Clyne, Lovren, Sakho, Flanagan
Southampton have had a lot of success with their stable 4-4-2 with Pelle and Long at the front. Sakho and Lovren need to start for the Reds to mark these two and contain them throughout the game. The Saints also have the attacking option of Mane hence the defensive presence of Flanagan will be crucial. Liverpool will also need to mark Tadic as he is at the heart of the assists for the Saints.
Midfield: Can, Henderson
With Lucas injured, Jurgen Klopp does not have too many options for the midfield. He should start with Can and Henderson. The midfield battle between Oriol Romeu and Emre Can will be one to watch out for. Henderson will need to step-up on his game and lead from the front. Southampton have been vulnerable to quick counter-attacks and the Liverpool’s middle-men will need to ensure them to happen.
Attack: Coutinho, Firmino, Lallana, Origi
In-form Coutinho and Lallana should take up the flanks but should not try and play too wide as Liverpool will be looking for a concentrated attacking approach. They should try and deliver those crosses but their impetus should lie on supporting Firmino and Origi in the box. Firmino has been in top form lately and Jurgen Klopp might try and utilize him as the second striker for this one. Divock Origi might be given a start for this one considering his ability to hold the ball upfront and make those quick runs at defenders.
