Liverpool lineup vs Southampton: Phillips dropped, no Thiago

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Liverpool, Jordan Henderson (Photo by Peter Powell – Pool/Getty Images) /

CM – Jordan Henderson

The Liverpool captain has been in fine form for them lately and will be looking to lead his team to a winning start to 2021. Henderson will start in midfield and will be keen on aiding his team defensively and offensively.

The England international’s long passing is pretty good and he’ll be looking to chip in with those deliveries to the attackers. Henderson should also try shooting from distance more often as it can fetch him a few brilliant goals like the ones against Crystal Palace not long back and Brighton last season.

CM – Georginio Wijnaldum

The Dutchman required some rest after starting so many matches in a row and he did as Klopp benched him against Newcastle before bringing him on in extra time. Wijnaldum will be back in the playing XI this week and will be keen on putting in a solid performance.

CM – Curtis Jones

The third midfield spot is a real tricky one especially with James Milner and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain back. Thiago was back in action following his injury against Everton and during the little time he was on the pitch, he did pretty well, spraying in some fine passes.

As much as we would like to see him, there’s a good chance of Klopp benching him again and bringing him on as a sub. So, I’m going for Jones to start on Tuesday. The teenager has already featured in 18 matches this season, amassing three goals and an assist. Jones will be keen on impressing against Southampton as with Thiago back in the fray, he will be looking to make the most out of every opportunity he receives.

However, it won’t be too much of a surprise if Oxlade-Chamberlain receives his first start of the season on Tuesday.