James Ward-Prowse to destroy Liverpool's PL hopes
Liverpool travel to the St. Mary's Stadium on Tuesday evening in the full knowledge that anything but a win will almost certainly mean they have to settle for second in the Premier League and a chance at the quadruple. The visitors will be lacking three of their biggest players, and Southampton aren't going to let them have it all their own way. Read our preview here:
Inch perfect Ward-Prowse
Ralph Hasenhüttl's men have has 10 days to prepare for this match, which stands in stark contrast to their opponents. Though they have little to play for in 15th, they would like to end the season on a high, a campaign which has petered out quite poorly since the beginning of April. Only Tony Livramento is out for certain, but Alex McCarthy could be between the sticks for the first time in 2022. Elsewhere, any direct free-kick opportunities the Saints have at this moment in time feel like penalties when James Ward-Prowse is taking them. Retaining his services this summer will be crucial in avoiding a struggle next term.
Curtis for them
A second trophy of a possible four was won on Saturday after a gruelling 120 minutes of football against Chelsea was once more settled on penalties in the FA Cup final. Though the Reds triumphed, it was not without cost; Mo Salah, Virgil van Dijk, and Fabinho are all ruled out of their must-win trip to Hampshire, and whilst Manchester City did drop points at West Ham United, there is a fine balance that must be made in terms of rotating personnel. Curtis Jones could be one of the faces to come into the XI. The 21 year old midfielder has had fewer opportunities this year, but his skills in bringing the game to the opposition might make getting high up the pitch a more frequent occurence.
Betting tip
On paper, it still looks like a Liverpool win, but as has been shown during the run-in, there are few guarantees. Klopp is going to have some very tired players no matter who he chooses on Tuesday night, and it could end in disappointment. Ward-Prowse has odds of 4.75 to take his tally for the league season into double figures with Casumo.
