Jurgen Klopp may make several changes to his Liverpool squad when they face Southampton next weekend
Liverpool’s 2022/23 season concludes next Sunday when they visit already-relegated Southampton.
As a result, while it is still possible for the Reds to make a late push for a top-four finish, it could also end up being a Premier League dead-rubber.
To finish in the top four, Jurgen Klopp’s men need one of Newcastle United or Manchester United to lose both of their remaining games. With the Magpies and Red Devils returning to action on Monday and Thursday, respectively, the top four will almost certainly be out of reach by the end of the season.
Alternatively, they could have secured fifth place by the time they face Southampton. The Reds have already qualified for next season’s Europa League and currently lead sixth-placed Brighton & Hove Albion by five points, despite having played one more game.
The Seagulls face Manchester City on Wednesday and must win to keep their hopes of finishing fifth alive. Drop points, and the place is Liverpool’s, with their trip to Southampton effectively over. If Brighton win, a point would be enough for the Reds on the final day, regardless of the result of Robert De Zerbi’s side, barring a significant change in goal difference.
As a result, it’s unclear whether Klopp’s team will have anything to play for at St. Mary’s. If they need the points, the German is likely to name someone from his strongest side. Otherwise, he would have nothing to lose by making drastic changes.
Kelleher steps in?
With David De Gea already having won the Premier League Golden Glove award, Alisson Becker could be given an early start to his summer if Klopp so desires, as long as there is nothing to play for at St. Mary’s.
If he is still in contention for fifth or fourth place, the Brazilian will keep his place and ensure an ever-present status in the Premier League this season. Otherwise, Caoimhin Kelleher could make his fourth appearance of the season, and his first in the English Premier League since Liverpool’s 2-2 draw at Chelsea in January 2022.
Tsimikas has arrived.
Liverpool’s first-choice back four has been undisputed in recent weeks during their 10-game unbeaten run, but it would not be surprising if Kostas Tsimikas was given a rare start against Southampton in place of Andy Robertson.
Trent Alexander-Arnold is likely to keep his spot at right-back if the Reds stick with their inverted full-back system. However, Joel Matip or Joe Gomez may be given a final season outing at the expense of Ibrahima Konate, or even Virgil van Dijk against his former club. After all, the pressure may have been released.
A further twist could be experimenting with Alexander-Arnold in midfield, with Gomez filling in at right back. At this rate, it’ll be a glorified friendly by the beach.
Milner was made for it, but what about Arthur?
If the game on Sunday means anything, expect Jordan Henderson, Fabinho, and Curtis Jones to start again in midfield. If Klopp feels the need for a change, Harvey Elliott is a possible starter.
With James Milner’s contract expiring this summer, it remains to be seen whether Saturday’s 1-1 draw with Aston Villa at Anfield will serve as his farewell, or if he has one more appearance in his Liverpool career. If chosen, he could start and even captain the team.
Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain is less likely to start against his former club after being absent from the matchday squad since the 4-1 defeat away at Manchester City at the beginning of last month. The same can be said for Naby Keita, who has yet to return to team training following an injury sustained during the March international break.
While it’s understandable that the pair’s Anfield careers are already over as they eye Bosman transfers without the risk of injury delaying their next move, if Klopp is feeling sentimental, Arthur Melo could be given his Premier League debut before returning to Juventus. Liverpool have paid for only 13 minutes of action for the Reds since their return in September.
If Klopps decides to rotate, Fabio Carvalho and Bobby Clark are also options.
As Salah begins, Firmino bids farewell.
Like Milner, it’s unclear whether Roberto Firmino has played his final game for Liverpool or will be involved against Southampton. Why not give the Brazilian one more chance after he equalized against Aston Villa?
Mohamed Salah, on the other hand, will remain on the right. The Egyptian is still on the hunt for his 20th Premier League goal of the season, and his next goal would also tie him for the second-most prolific season of his career. Meanwhile, he has 45 total goal contributions this season, with one more goal or assist tying him for the second-most productive year of his career.
Darwin Nunez should not be risked if he still has a toe injury, leaving Luis Diaz and Diogo Jota to compete for the final starting spot. Both will want to finish strong after having their seasons derailed by injury.
If Klopp wanted to shake things up even more, he could go with Elliott, Carvalho, or even highly rated teenager Ben Doak.
So, if fourth is still a possibility, or if Liverpool needs points to finish fifth, don’t expect many changes. But, if the Reds have entered ‘on the beach’ territory, there’s no harm in making a change or nine as Firmino and Milner bid farewell and the Premier League finally gets to see what Arthur Melo has in his locker!
Leave a Reply