Liverpool’s narrow 1-0 win over Besiktas midweek has probably left manager Brendan Rodgers with more questions than answers as the Reds travel to Southampton today for what in all intents and purposes is a six-point match as both sides look for a top-four finish.
Victory is a must for Liverpool knowing that they still have to play Man City, Man United and Arsenal in the coming weeks and should they manage to leave Saint Marys with a win, it could give them the confidence for the tough matches ahead.
Goalkeeper
Rodgers has little choice but to continue with Simon Mignolet, who to be honest has redeemed himself in the eyes of many supporters following some massive saves in recent games.
Defence
Despite a shaky start to the season and a lot of experimenting, it would appear as though Rodgers now has his preferred back-three in Emre Can, Martin Skrtel and Mamadou Sakho, so we do not expect to see any changes against Southampton.
Midfield
This is where Liverpool could come undone with no Steven Gerrard and Lucas Leiva available; it will be down to Joe Allen playing alongside Jordan Henderson to help protect the backs.
Alberto Moreno and Lazar Markovic will be out on the wings to take the ball wide and hopefully take on Saints defenders as Liverpool press forward.
Attack
One question this afternoon will be whether or not Raheem Sterling will start the match or be used as a substitute after just returning to training with the team. This opens up the possibility of Adam Lallana starting against his former club. Brazilian Philippe Coutinho has to be one of the first names on Rodgers team sheet with goal scoring machine Daniel Sturridge up front to lead the Liverpool attack.
