Liverpool return to St. Mary’s for the second time in under a month, this time for a Carabao Cup quarter-final clash with Southampton on Wednesday, December 18, at 20:00 UK time.
Their last trip in November brought a tense 3-2 Premier League victory, but much has changed for the Saints since then.
Following a 5-0 hammering at the hands of Tottenham, Russell Martin has been dismissed, with interim boss Simon Rusk taking charge of his first senior match.
In goal, Alisson Becker is expected to get the night off, paving the way for Caoimhin Kelleher to step in once more.
Defensively, options are limited, so the backline might remain largely intact. Andy Robertson should start on the left, with his upcoming league suspension making this outing a useful run-out. Trent Alexander-Arnold is set to hold down the right as Conor Bradley remains sidelined. Joe Gomez is tipped to keep his place, partnering Jarell Quansah, who may replace Virgil van Dijk in central defence.
Midfield rotations seem likely. Wataru Endo and Tyler Morton could form the double pivot, giving Curtis Jones and Ryan Gravenberch a breather.
Harvey Elliott is expected to take the No. 10 role, edging out Dominik Szoboszlai.
On the flanks, Federico Chiesa—whose £10 million switch from Juventus has been plagued by injuries—might finally get a rare start, potentially stepping in for Mohamed Salah on the right. Darwin Núñez could feature on the left, offering pace and directness in place of Cody Gakpo.
Up front, Diogo Jota, fresh from scoring on his return against Fulham, may lead the attack, looking to sharpen his match fitness and form in a crucial cup tie.