Predicted Liverpool XI v Southampton | OneFootball

Liverpool will take on Southampton in the Premier League on Saturday, and Arne Slot dropped hints that he could be set to make a few changes to the side amid a challenging Champions League second-leg clash against Paris Saint-Germain and a looming Carabao Cup final.

After an energy-sapping first-leg in Paris, where Liverpool snatched a victory right at the end, the Reds turn their attention to the Premier League inside three days, where the top meets the bottom.

Liverpool have taken a sizeable lead at the top (13 points), but they cannot afford to take the Saints lightly. Slot needs to find the right balance with team selection, but he has enough quality players in the team who can step up whenever required.

Cody Gakpo is a major doubt for this game, and in all probability, the Dutch winger won’t be risked. Here’s how Liverpool could line up.

Defence

While there could be temptation to start with Caoimhin Kelleher in goal, Alisson is most likely to continue.

Joe Gomez is still out injured, and Jarrel Quansah remains the only back-up option. Quansah is a reliable defender, and he could start alongside Virgil van Dijk.

Andy Robertson was brilliant against PSG, and he will be needed for the two big games coming up. Kostas Tsimikas is a reliable deputy and could replace the Scotsman.

Midfield

Ryan Gravenberch needs a breather. He has been “exceptional” this season, and Slot needs him to be at his best for the upcoming big games.

Wataru Endo has impressed heavily in recent cameo appearances, and he is likely to start in place of the Dutchman.

Curtis Jones is also likely to start, while Harvey Elliott could make his first start in the Premier League this season in place of Dominik Szoboszlai.

Forward

Mohamed Salah and Luis Diaz are expected to continue, but Darwin Nunez could replace Diogo Jota, who hasn’t scored in his last seven games.

The Uruguayan striker provided the assist for Elliott’s goal, and Slot praised him in the post-match press conference.

Slot could make as many as six changes from the last game, and it will still be a quality side, capable enough to win against the Saints.