Liverpool: This is the back four we want to see against Southampton
By David Gate
![LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND - JANUARY 27: Virgil van Dijk of Liverpool reacts during The Emirates FA Cup Fourth Round match between Liverpool and West Bromwich Albion at Anfield on January 27, 2018 in Liverpool, England. (Photo by Alex Livesey/Getty Images) LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND - JANUARY 27: Virgil van Dijk of Liverpool reacts during The Emirates FA Cup Fourth Round match between Liverpool and West Bromwich Albion at Anfield on January 27, 2018 in Liverpool, England. (Photo by Alex Livesey/Getty Images)](https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/upload/c_fill,w_720,ar_16:9,f_auto,q_auto,g_auto/shape/cover/sport/9cf4f5dd760e6d5091fe8c706b0a7ebce620e54122d427d137d651cbe9b20868.jpg)
Right Back: Joe Gomez
The England international missed the game with Spurs last week with an injury. However he is expected to be fit to be involved against Southampton.
While Trent Alexander-Arnold was excellent in the first half, Liverpool could have done with Gomez’ more natural defensive instincts as the game went on and the Reds sat back.
I wouldn’t be surprised if Klopp plumped for the younger player again on Sunday. Southampton tend to play deeper and invite pressure – especially against the top six sides. If that is how the game is going to go then Trent Alexander-Arnold would be the better of the two.
That would also allow the manager to keep Gomez fresh for the Champions League against Porto where he is sure to start.
However I think Klopp will go to Gomez for both of these matches. With so much at stake – the Reds could be fifth on Sunday if results don’t go their way – I think we will see the strongest side we have. My prediction is that there will be minimal rotation in the next two games.