Adam Lallana and Philippe Coutinho are expected to be in the matchday squad as Liverpool host Southampton.
After watching Manchester City beat Crystal Palace on Saturday, it is now Liverpool’s chance to regain third spot when they play host to Southampton. The Reds will have played a game more than the Manchester club, but will look to pile the pressure by picking up three points.
There is plenty of positivity on the injury front as manager Jurgen Klopp will welcome Adam Lallana and Philippe Coutinho back to the squad, both of whom are in contention to start the game against the Saints.
The Brazilian limped off during Liverpool’s 1-0 win against Watford, giving Klopp a mini selection headache as he is looking to guide the Reds back into the top four. However, the German said the signs are looking good and gave a positive report on him.
The Liverpool boss said: “Phil was back running yesterday … We can’t be 100 per cent sure, but in this moment it looks positive.”
This will come as great news to Liverpool fans, and they will also be happy to hear that Lallana is ready to go. The Englishman could be played in advanced position, as Klopp may choose to bring Coutinho off the bench.
Jordan Henderson continues to be ruled out, despite being on the verge of returning to first-team training for a number of weeks. Unfortunately, the foot injury he suffered against Spurs in February is not getting any better, and it is unlikely he’ll return for the rest of the season.
Striker Danny Ings remains out for the season while academy product Ovie Ejaria is also not expected to return to first-team action anytime soon.
Southampton, on the other hand, have major injury concerns. Goalkeeper Alex McCarthy along with defensive duo Virgil van Dijk and Sam McQueen are ruled out. Sofiane Boufal and Matt Targett remain huge doubts.
On the positive side, Charlie Austin is expected to make a return to the first-team after missing out for five months. He suffered a shoulder injury in December, but returned to reserve team football recently. It’s unlikely that he will start, but will be named in the matchday squad.
