Liverpool handed potential major boost ahead of Southampton cup clash
By Matt Farr
Liverpool may have been handed a major boost ahead of their FA Cup semi-final second-leg clash with Southampton on Wednesday.
Jurgen Klopp’s side begin the tie needing nothing other than a victory to progress to the final of the competition, having lost the first-leg 1-0 earlier this month.
However, their chances of victory may have improved as star defender Virgil van Dijk limped off for Southampton during their victory 3-0 over Leicester on Sunday.
The Holland international has been one of the best defenders in the Premier League this season, and could be a major blow to Southampton’s season ambitions.
The Saints will certainly feel hard done by with the timing of the potential setback, having just sold fellow defender Jose Fonte to West Ham.
The exact nature of the setback is unclear, but Van Dijk was seen clutching his ankle prior to leaving the field. His substitution in the 55th minute against Leicester may just have been a precaution, with Wednesday’s meeting with Liverpool in mind.
Southampton may now be forced to field an unfamiliar combination at the back, with Fonte and Van Dijk doing the brunt of the work in the first-half of the season.
Maya Yoshida and Jack Stephens completed the game for Southampton on Sunday, but the pair have managed just 10 Premier League appearances between them this term.
Liverpool’s attack has been their strongest asset this season, and the likes of Roberto Firmino, Philippe Coutinho, Divock Origi and Adam Lallana may well be relishing the prospect of facing a Southampton defence without both Fonte and Van Dijk next week.
In other Liverpool news, Euro 2016 sensation Antoine Griezmann has heaped praise on this Liverpool star.
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