Southampton vs Liverpool: Premier League match preview

A look ahead to Sunday’s Premier League fixture at St Mary’s

Mario Balotelli scores his first Premier League goal for Liverpool (Getty Images)

When Liverpool raided St Mary’s of their prized assets last summer many thought the Saints would struggle with the departure of so many key names; but seven months on Ronald Koeman’s side sit three places above Adam Lallana, Dejan Lovren, Rickie Lambert and co.

Although the gap has closed to four points as Liverpool look revived over the winter period, Koeman’s men are slight favourites for victory in what could be a crucial clash in the race for Champions League football.

Despite only losing one of their last 13 league games, Liverpool were in Europa League action in midweek whilst they face a Saints’ side which won’t have played for 11 days. That could play a part.

Brendan Rodgers will be hoping Mario Balotelli can play a key role in getting a result this weekend after his late winner, and first league goal for the Reds, against fellow Champions League chasers Spurs in a thrilling 3-2 win.

KICK-OFF: Sunday, 4.15pm

PAST THREE MEETINGS…

Liverpool 2 (Sterling, Sturridge) Southampton 1 (Clyne), Premier League, August 2014

Southampton 0 Liverpool 3 (Suarez, Sterling, Gerrard (p)), Premier League, March 2014

Liverpool 0 Southampton 1 (Lovren), Premier League, September 2013

STATS…

Southampton have won three of the last four meetings at St Mary’s, each by a two-goal margin.

Southampton have lost just one of their last nine league games.

Graziano Pelle hasn’t scored in the league for 727 minutes.

Liverpool haven’t conceded a goal in their last four away games.

Liverpool have had the second highest amount of shots per game this season (15.9).

ODDS…

Southampton to win: 2.62

Liverpool to win: 3

Draw: 3.4

CLASSIC MATCH…

Southampton 3 Liverpool 3

Gerard Houiller’s side looked to have wrapped up three points as they lead 3-0 with 17 minutes to go thanks to a Michael Owen double and a goal from captain Sami Hyypia. However, the home side had other ideas and managed to complete a superb comeback through a late Martin Pahars brace either side of a Tahar El Khalej header.

TV: Live on Sky Sports 1 at 4.15pm, highlights on Match of the Day, BBC One at 10.30pm