Premier League
Liverpool vs Southampton Preview
Liverpool versus Southampton promises to be an enticing game as the Reds welcome the Saints at Anfield on Match day 6 of the Premier League. The Reds is unbeaten in the Premier League this season with 5 wins out of 5 and sit 2nd in the Premier League behind Chelsea. They are hot favorites for this mid afternoon kick-off (3pm UK time).
Jurgen Kloop’s men return to the EPL after a remarkable display against French Champions PSG in the Champions League. Mark Hughes men on their part have started the season in a turbulent manner, winning just 1 game out of the 5 they have played. They have also drawn two games and lost 2, and currently sit 13th on the EPL table.
Previous Encounters
Liverpool has not lost to Southampton in their last three meetings, 2 wins and 1 draw. Overall both teams have met 108 times. Of these, Liverpool have been victorious 53 times, drawn 30, and lost 25. Several bookies also have placed Liverpool as favorites for this game.
Team News
Firmino is fit and ready to play in this fixture after sitting out the majority of the mid week game against PSG due to a slight injury. One would however wonder if Sturridge gets to keep his place after a remarkable display on Tuesday. Klopp too might opt to go for a midfield which includes Henderson. Over the last couple of weeks, he has not fielded him as often as he did last season due to tiredness.
Southampton will be without their talisman Danny Ings who is on loan from Liverpool. Mark Hughes however has stated that his believe that they will be just fine without him.
Predicted Lineups
Liverpool (4-3-3) Allison, Trent, Van Dijk, Gomes, Robertson, Henderson, Keita, Wijnaldum, Salah, Firminho, Mane.
Southampton (4-2-2) McCarthy, Cedric, Vestergaard, Hoedt, Bertrand, Redmond, Hojbjerg, Lemina, Elyounoussi, Austin, Long.
Match Prediction
Despite recent concerns over Mohamed Salah’s form, this should be a comfortable win for Liverpool. Having conceded only two goals this season in the EPL and with Ings unavailable for this game, it is difficult to see how Southampton will get past this Liverpool defense.
Prediction: Liverpool 2-0 Southampton
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Photo credit to Joseph Vassallo via Flickr
