Liverpool travel to St Mary’s on Sunday as they face struggling Southampton in a Premier League encounter. League leaders Liverpool aim to secure another three points in their bid to maintain their gap at the top, while Southampton will hope for a miracle to avoid further entrenchment at the bottom of the table.
Liverpool's Recent Form
Liverpool have been nearly flawless this season. Currently five points clear at the summit, they have dropped just five points from their opening 11 matches.
With Darwin Núñez and Mohamed Salah in blistering form, the Reds remain firm favourites for Sunday’s clash. Their recent 2-0 victory over Aston Villa at Anfield was a testament to their tactical sharpness and efficiency going forward.
Southampton's Recent Form
Southampton sit rock-bottom with only four points, having managed just one victory this season. Their last outing ended in a disappointing 2-0 loss to Wolves, a match that highlighted their frailties in defence and lack of cutting edge going forward.
A narrow 1-0 win against Everton two weeks ago provided temporary respite, but the Saints face a daunting task to turn their season around.
Injury and Team News
Southampton
The Saints face a defensive crisis with Jan Bednarek sidelined due to a knee ligament injury. Aaron Ramsdale is also unavailable, leaving Alex McCarthy to start in goal.
Lesley Ugochukwu is expected to return, and Adam Lallana might feature against his former club.
Liverpool
Liverpool have concerns of their own. Trent Alexander-Arnold is a doubt, and Alexis Mac Allister is unlikely to play after suffering a knock on international duty. Virgil van Dijk, however, is expected to be fit, while Alisson is set to return between the sticks.
Last Lineups
Southampton's Last Lineup
Liverpool's Last Lineup
Who is the Referee and VAR?
Referee: Sam Barrott.
Assistants: Lee Betts, Wade Smith.
Fourth official: Darren England.
VAR: Michael Oliver.
Assistant VAR: Mat Wilkes.
Players to Watch
Southampton
Adam Lallana – The former Liverpool midfielder could have a pivotal role in this match, both in organising Southampton’s midfield and providing creativity. Facing his former club adds an extra layer of motivation, making him a key player to watch.
Liverpool
Mohamed Salah – Although he hasn’t scored in his last five outings against Southampton, Salah remains Liverpool’s talisman. He will be eager to rediscover his scoring touch on Sunday.
Prediction
Given the contrasting form of the two sides, this looks to be a one-sided affair. Liverpool’s firepower and Southampton's defensive vulnerabilities suggest a comfortable win for the Reds.
Our Predicted Score: Southampton 0-3 Liverpool
Betting Tips
Tip 1
Liverpool to win to nil – The Reds have the defensive solidity and attacking quality to dominate both ends of the pitch.
Tip 2
Darwin Núñez to score anytime – With his recent goalscoring form, Núñez is a reliable bet to find the back of the net.
Tip 3
Over 2.5 goals – Liverpool’s attacking momentum and Southampton's defensive issues make this a high-scoring prospect one-way.
