Match Focus: Reds Out to End Saints' Fine Away Record on Sunday
Jurgen Klopp may have made his first appearance in front of the crowd at Anfield in midweek but this game will be a first for the German in the Premier League on Merseyside. Much like his opening game in charge at Spurs this will be no pushover though, hosting a Southampton side that are one of only 4 teams yet to lose on the road in the Premier League this season.
The Saints last away day was a memorable one too, returning to the coast from Stamford Bridge with a 3-1 win, and they'll be looking to upset the odds once more on Sunday. With the added incentive of having seen Liverpool strip their team of some of their prized assets, with Nathaniel Clyne making the same trip as Lallana, Lovren and Lambert this summer, the away fans will be desperate to make the journey home in jubilant mood once more.
Despite the fact that they recently sacked a manager, Liverpool have actually proven to be fairly resolute this season - defeats to West Ham and United aside. Indeed, those two losses are the only matches in which the Reds have trailed all season - finding themselves in a losing position fewer times than any other Premier League team. With the likes of Firmino and Benteke back in full training, Klopp will look to build again following a solid defensive showing in the most part at White Hart Lane.
If the big Belgian is back in contention he will likely replace compatriot Divock Origi, setting up a hotly contested aerial battle with Saints summer signing Virgil van Dijk. The Dutchman has made a strong start to life at St. Mary's - currently ranking as Southampton's highest rated player (7.71) - leading his side in terms of aerial duels won (5.4) and clearances (7.2) per game. Meanwhile Benteke has won more aerial duels per game than any other Premier League player (8.5), while no one has scored more headed goals since the former Villa front man made the move to England (13).
Who do you think will come out on top when Liverpool host Southampton? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below
