Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has a few big choices to make ahead of the Reds’ Premier League clash with Southampton tonight.
The Merseysiders have not been in action since the 1-1 draw against Newcastle United two weeks ago following the decision to postpone their fixture against Manchester United last week.
They were left frustrated in the clash with the Magpies, with tonight’s clash against the Saints representing what could be their last realistic chance to earn a place in the top four.
One player who should be left out by Klopp at Anfield is forward Diogo Jota. Despite the Portuguese forward having enjoyed an electric start to life with Liverpool following his move from Wolves last year, he has simply not managed to hit the same heights in recent weeks.
The £36m-rated forward has started each of the last three Premier League games, not managing to get on the scoresheet. As a matter of fact, he is now five matches without a goal in all competitions.
That run has shown little signs of ending, with Jota having flattered to deceive against both Leeds and Newcastle. Over those two games, he managed to have nine shots according to WhoScored but only got four of those on target.
Meanwhile, Jota was also supremely wasteful on the ball having conceded possession 23 times against Leeds and 16 times against the Magpies.
In both games, the forward was substituted by Klopp. He lasted just 80 minutes at Elland Road whilst also being withdrawn after just 57 in the frustrating stalemate with Newcastle.
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Whilst it might make sense to keep him in the starting XI considering Liverpool’s need to win the game against a stuttering Southampton, Jota’s lack of rhythm and form make him a prime candidate to drop out.
AND in more news, the Reds have received a huge defensive boost ahead of hosting the Saints at Anfield…