With a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Swansea on Sunday, Jurgen Klopp and Liverpool have now won four matches in a row. They now face Southampton in the Capital One Cup on only three days rest.
The Saints have been fielding strong lineups during their run in this competition and that could lead to Klopp playing more experienced players than he did the last time against Bournemouth. This match is also an opportunity for a few returning players to get some much needed playing time.
Goalkeeper
Adam Bogdan has been the ‘keeper of choice in this competition and he should continue to remain in goal for the Reds. While he is the backup to Simon Mignolet, Bogdan is still a very capable starter and he would be the no.1 for more than a few Premier League sides.
Right-Back
Connor Randall started the last match in the competition and given that he has been a consistent presence on the bench this season, he deserves to start this match. He needs to get some playing time since he is the only other option if one of the starting full backs of the Reds get injured or suspended.
Center-Backs
While both Martin Skrtel and Dejan Lovren are physical enough to handle Graziano Pelle, they need to make sure that the team avoids pressure packed situations like they did at the end of the Swansea match.The team has only had one clean sheet in its last five matches, this is something they need to fix if they want to be a top-level side.
Left-Back
With Alberto Moreno nursing a few knocks according to Klopp, Nathaniel Clyne could start on the left side of the defense. Clyne is versatile enough to move to the side of his weaker foot and he can definitely handle whoever starts on the wing for the Saints.
Midfield
It was a short but sweet return to action for Jordan Henderson on Sunday as he came on for 27 minutes. He may see some time this Wednesday but it also would not be a surprise to see a young player such as Cameron Brannagan or Jordan Rossiter as well.
Lucas Leiva sat out the last match because of a suspension but he could return to his usual role to make sure that Southampton does not get any momentum while with the ball. Emre Can has been a consistent starter this season and his relentless energy is a big reason why. He presses very well but he still needs to work on refining the end product.
Right Wing
Jordon Ibe continues to be a completely different player under the new manager but he needs to find consistency if he is to remain a starter. He was excellent against Rubin Kazan but he has not even come close to that in recent matches.
Forward
Daniel Sturridge came on as a substitute in the last match but it may finally be time for him get match fit by playing a decent amount of minutes. He is still one of the best strikers in the Premier League and having him in the lineup will provide a massive confidence boost not only for his teammates, but also the fans.
While seeing Sturridge start would be great, Klopp could also start either Roberto Firmino or Christian Benteke before bringing the Englishman off the bench once again.
Right Wing
Klopp has stated that he expects Philippe Coutinho to be ready for this match so it would not be a surprise to see the Brazilian start. The team has proven that they can win without the little magician but he remains one of Liverpool’s most creative players. His connection with Sturridge is fantastic and the pair should terrorize the Southampton defense.
(4-3-3)
Via – Lineup Builder
