Liverpool make their way to St Mary’s tonight as they aim to defend their Carabao Cup crown. This competition was the last piece of silverware lifted by Jürgen Klopp before his departure, and Arne Slot now edges closer to adding the same accolade to his early success at the helm.
Southampton, however, find themselves in turmoil. A humiliating 5-0 defeat to Tottenham at home over the weekend cost Russell Martin his job, and the Saints are still searching for a replacement. With no new manager expected in time for tonight’s clash, Southampton will be hoping for a galvanised performance under the floodlights.
Southampton’s Struggles Could Set the Tone
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After a dismal showing against Spurs, where all five goals were conceded in the first half, Southampton are undoubtedly at their lowest point this season. Injuries and suspensions have compounded their problems, with Aaron Ramsdale still sidelined and Alex McCarthy deputising in goal. Jack Stephens remains suspended, while Nathan Wood may retain his spot after a commendable performance against Tottenham.
Adding to their woes, Southampton’s star players are struggling to deliver, and they’ll need an inspired showing to avoid another embarrassment in front of their home fans.
Liverpool Look to Bounce Back
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Liverpool enter this fixture on the back of a rare stumble—a 2-2 draw against Fulham at Anfield on Saturday. Despite that, Slot’s side have been largely impeccable this season, and they’ll arrive on the south coast as strong favourites.
Defensive concerns linger for Liverpool, with Andy Robertson suspended and several key defenders, including Ibrahima Konaté and Kostas Tsimikas, ruled out through injury. Diogo Jota’s fitness remains uncertain after a minor setback, but Federico Chiesa’s return to the bench against Fulham offers a potential boost.
Slot himself won’t be on the touchline, serving a suspension after accumulating three yellow cards, but Liverpool’s depth should be enough to see them through.
Prediction: Liverpool to Progress
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Even with rotation expected, Liverpool have the quality to overcome a Southampton side reeling from their recent drubbing. While the Saints might summon a spirited response, the gulf in form and squad depth is likely to be too significant to bridge.
**Prediction:** Southampton 1-3 Liverpool