Liverpool host Southampton in a must-win game this Sunday as anything less than three points could severely damage their chances of Champions League qualification. They have had a mediocre time against the Saints recently but will be up to the task this weekend. Here are three key battles that could decide the outcome of the game.,
Roberto Firmino vs Ryan Bertrand
The absence of Sadio Mane has slashed Liverpool’s attacking potency to half and Jurgen Klopp had to try out various new combinations to keep the attacking edge persistent against resilient opponents. While Crystal Palace was a tough nut to crack for the Reds, Watford couldn’t keep their buoyant defending for long.
Against Southampton, Klopp can expect the most organised of defences for sure, which has stopped some top sides in the league. Playing Firmino on the right flank has its downside for sure, but his incessant work rate and commanding physicality will be a key for Liverpool’s attack. The Brazilian has been very effective in the false number 9 role this year scoring 11 goals and assisting nine times so far.
Claude Puel will have the reliable Ryan Bertrand take care of the Liverpool forward. And although Firmino’s big frame would be too much of a challenge for the full-back, his raw pace will be a huge problem for both Firmino and Clyne on that flank. Liverpool may be caught off guard when they are overlapping as the English full-back did against Manchester United in the EFL Cup final.
Philippe Coutinho vs Cedric Soares
This could be the most important duel of the game. Southampton will have their star, Cedric Soares, on that right flank and he could be having the most challenging task in covering Coutinho and the overlapping James Milner.
The Portuguese international has earned rave reviews for his brilliant displays on the right defensive flank, and given his demand, this may well be his last season with the Saints. Soares’ ability to read the game and move up when given the slightest of spaces will be instrumental if Southampton want to get a positive outcome from the game.
Coutinho needs little introduction. Soares has to be careful not to give him space to cut in from that flank. Coutinho can unleash the most impeccable of shots with his right foot and Southampton could be a couple of goals down even before they realise.
Manolo Gabbiadini vs Joel Matip
The Italian has been a breath of fresh air for Southampton this year. He arrived in January when the Saints were struggling with a proper centre-forward and gave them shape. Although he is going through a dry patch after starting off with a blast, his poaching instincts make him a huge threat for Liverpool.
Liverpool’s defence has come under huge criticism this season and expect Matip, there has been hardly any method at the back. Matip will be calling the shots there and will have to be careful in reading the game on the night.
