3 reasons why Southampton will beat Liverpool this evening

Best trophy chance

Three defeats in six days over the festive period has all but ended Southampton’s chances of finishing in the European places this season and, given that they very unlikely to get relegated, Puel can go all out to win the League Cup.

The Saints were also knocked out of the Europa League in the group stages back in November, so they haven’t got any European commitments to worry about between now and May.

Thus, the League Cup should become a priority.

This was highlighted by Puel making eight changes in their 2-2 draw at Norwich in the FA Cup on Saturday and, given that they are three games away from winning the club’s first ever League Cup title, that was hardly a surprise.

This is a great chance for Southampton to win a major title – they have deservedly given themselves a chance of doing so, and it’s now up to them to make the most of it.