Southampton FC lineup to face Liverpool in FA Cup would be difficult as key players battle with injuries.
SAINTS face possibly their toughest test of the season this evening against Liverpool in the FA Cup.
Southampton have won just one of their last four games, while Liverpool have won their last four.
That run includes winning the League Cup final against Chelsea last time out – former Saint Virgil van Dijk scoring the winner at Wembley.
Here is how we think Saints will line up this evening against the eight-time FA Cup winners…
Goalkeeper
Joe Lumley has been the nominated goalkeeper in the FA Cup this season and that will likely continue at Anfield.
Defenders
Kyle Walker-Peters has been rested in the FA Cup so far, but a test against Liverpool could require his know-how.
Ryan Manning has made some mistakes of late which could mean James Bree is favoured – which would mark his return from injury.
Martin has been on record saying he feels Saints “need Jack Stephens in the team” currently, which could mean the skipper starts against Liverpool. He will be partnered by Taylor Harwood-Bellis.
Midfielders
Flynn Downes still remains a doubt so young Northern Ireland international Shea Charles should start at the base of midfield.
Joe Aribo has impressed again since his return from AFCON and will be in midfield along with Will Smallbone.
Forwards
Top goalscorer Adam Armstrong did not start against Millwall and will likely return to the starting XI.
Frenchman Sekou Mara was unused on the weekend – perhaps in order to keep him fresh for this evening.
Kamaldeen Sulemana’s best Southampton performance came against Liverpool and the Ghanaian could be handed a fresh chance to impress with Ryan Fraser now out injured.
One player who will definitely be missing though is David Brooks who is cup tied after playing for Bournemouth in the 3rd & 4th rounds of the competition.
I think the manager will go for a hybrid of a side, I think Joe Lumley will again deputise for Gavin Bazunu in goal as he has done in previous rounds, the back line will feature Jack Stephens, but who he will partner is open for debate, at right back I think KWP will be rested and James Bree will come in to give him match sharpness and at left back Meghoma could also feature.
Joe Rothwell will join Will Smallbone and Shea Charles in the midfield and up front Che Adams will have Sekou Mara and one of Sam Edozie, Sam Amo-Ameyaw or Tyler Dibling alongside him.
