Just watched the pre-match press-conferences from both Klopp and Hassenhutl.
Gotta say, this is gonna be a real, real challenge for the boys. Didn't realise exactly how long Southampton have been without playing - they'll be super fresh and can already be a real handful if they get near their top levels. Klopp outlining the difficulties we have with selection and that if we tried to go with rhythm we lose the freshness battle, and if we go for freshness we lose our rhythm advantage. Real tough selection for him.
Saints have been solid against the better teams as well and whilst they take the occasional battering I think their style can be better suited to better opposition. Would be a huge 3 points. And that's it really, we just have to get 3 points by hook or by crook. Don't care how, just somehow need to score one more than them and get back on the massage beds.
Trying to think through the line-up and think the below are probably guaranteed starters:
Ali, Gomez, Matip, Tsimikas, Jones, Bobby.
So, tough decisions around the other centre-half (Rhys Williams anyone?!) or maybe even right-back with Gomez partnering Matip in the middle instead.
Midfield is tough, Henderson and Thiago shouldn't be on the pitch for more than 20 minutes imo - they're too big too lose considering Fabs race for Paris. Think Naby falls into that group as well to be honest. Thought he had a really good game in the cup final. I suppose Milner will be asked to go again.
Looking at other options we've got Ox, Elliott, Jota, Origi and Minamino. I'd have both Mane and Diaz on the bench with an eye for them doing 30 if we're desperate for a goal.
If it was me, I think I'd probably go with:
Ali
Gomez, Matip, Konate, Tsimikas (stability from Gomez, a wide/set piece delivery threat from TSIMI TSIMI TSIMI, and two aerial monsters at corners/freekicks)
Elliott, Milner, Jones (Millie for stability, quality, experience and leadership/support for the two young lads - both of whom are confident and comfortable on the ball and capable of moments of flair, creativity and goal scoring)
Ox, Bobby, Origi (Think Ox is better in the forward line and offers decent crossing and dribbling ability, pace/directness and an eye for a goal with a decent threat from range. Bobby needs time on the pitch as I think he's potentially got a big role to play as a CL final sub and he'll hopefully keep the ball for us in their third well and allow us to build and support attacks. Divock because it's Divock and how are you gonna get his last massive contribution if you don't get him on the pitch
, plus, he's got a decent record vs Southampton if I remember rightly.
I'd be surprised if I've got that right (not sure I have all season) and Elliott/Ox are probably the most unlikely with Keita and one of Jota/Mane/Diaz being asked to go again in their place.
But whatever really, just get the 3 points reds and take it to the last game.
With no real reasoning whatsoever, other than my complete faith in this group of lads, I think we'll get the win.
