Liverpool will face Southampton in the quarter-finals of the EFL Cup at St Mary's Stadium on Wednesday. The Reds are looking to build on their solid run in the competition, with new manager Arne Slot hoping to replicate the success of the club's recent cup performances. Despite a couple of recent draws in domestic action, Slot's side remains strong favorites to progress past a Southampton team that has struggled in the Premier League.
Team News:
Liverpool will have a few key absentees heading into this fixture. Andy Robertson, who was sent off in their most recent Premier League match against Fulham, will serve a suspension and miss out on this cup tie. However, Liverpool will welcome back Alexis Mac Allister, who has completed his suspension and is eligible to feature. The Argentine midfielder has been a key player for the Reds this season, and his return provides a much-needed boost for the squad.
Diogo Jota, who scored a crucial goal in Liverpool's 2-2 draw against Fulham, is recovering from a minor injury and may not be risked for this match, though his return to the side adds depth to the attacking options. Mohamed Salah and Virgil van Dijk have both been given rest in the competition so far, and they are expected to feature against Southampton, as Klopp looks to rotate his squad while keeping the team competitive.
In goal, Klopp may choose to give regular cup goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher another start, despite Alisson Becker being fit after returning from injury last week. Liverpool's defensive options are somewhat limited, with Ibrahima Konate, Kostas Tsimikas, and Conor Bradley all sidelined. This could mean that Virgil van Dijk will start alongside Joe Gomez and young Jarell Quansah, who could be given an opportunity to feature in this competition.
Possible Starting Line-Up:
Goalkeeper: Caoimhin Kelleher
Defenders: Trent Alexander-Arnold, Joe Gomez, Virgil van Dijk, Jarell Quansah
Midfielders: Alexis Mac Allister, Wataru Endo, Curtis Jones
Forwards: Harvey Elliott, Cody Gakpo, Darwin Nunez.
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