Premier League leaders Liverpool take on EFL Championship side Southampton in the Carabao Cup third round on September 23.
Arne Slot’s side are flying high this season, with five wins from five in league action, and a five-point lead over second-place Arsenal in the rankings.
Despite their recent reputation for scoring late winners, it was two first-half goals from Ryan Gravenberch and Hugo Ekitike that secured a 2-1 weekend derby win over Everton.
The Carabao Cup produced Slot’s sole final appearance in his debut campaign as the Reds lost out in March to Newcastle United, and he is keen for another deep run in the tournament this season.
Southampton have struggled on their return to the Championship since relegation from the Premier League, with new boss Will Still winning just one league game from six.
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Liverpool lineup vs. Southampton: Predicted starting XI, team news, injury latest
The Anfield derby win over Everton did not produce any fresh injury worries for Slot and he should have a full squad to pick from.
However, due to the busy schedule, the Dutch coach will rotate ahead of a league trip to Crystal Palace on September 27.
Slot has already confirmed five players will not be involved after completing three full games in succession, with Mohamed Salah, Virgil van Dijk, Gravenberch, Ibrahima Konate and Dominik Szoboszlai given the night off.
Alexander Isak came of the bench against David Moyes’ side, and he should start, as Slot continues to build up his match fitness.
Wataru Endo and Joe Gomez could be drafted into central defence as cover, with Curtis Jones and 17-year-old Rio Ngumoha tipped to start plus a debut for Giorgi Mamardashvili in place of Alisson.
Trey Nyoni, Jayden Danns and Trent Kone-Doherty are expected be involved in a refreshed Reds matchday squad.
Liverpool predicted starting XI (4-2-3-1, right to left): Mamardashvili (GK) — Bradley, Gomez, Endo, Robertson — Jones, Mac Allister — Ngumoha, Chiesa, Gakpo — Isak
Injured: None
Suspended: None
Liverpool vs. Southampton match details
- Date: Tuesday, September 23, 2025
- Kickoff time: 8 p.m. local / 3 p.m. ET / 12 p.m. PT / 5 a.m. AEST (Sep. 24)
- Location: Anfield, Liverpool (UK)
- Competition: Carabao Cup
- Referee: Thomas Bramall
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