Arne Slot has six assured starters for Southampton – Liverpool must not squander this opportunity

In the second part of his ECHO column, John Aldridge discusses Diogo Jota’s return and the importance of the Carabao Cup for Liverpool.

The biggest positive from Saturday’s 2-2 draw against Fulham at Anfield was Diogo Jota’s return after a two-month absence. The Portuguese striker appeared as though he had never been gone, scoring an excellent goal to equalize at 2-2. While Mohamed Salah and Cody Gakpo have been in fantastic form and Liverpool hasn’t lost a game without Jota, his presence has still been missed.

Before his injury against Chelsea on October 20, Jota’s season had been somewhat inconsistent, but he looked sharper than ever when he came on against Fulham. His timing was perfect, and he appeared like a greyhound ready to spring into action, showing remarkable composure for his equalizer. The calmness he displayed in that moment, especially considering how little he’s played and it being his first chance to score since returning, was impressive.

Looking ahead to Liverpool’s game against Southampton on Wednesday, Jota should start. He needs the minutes, and this is an ideal opportunity for him to get them. Federico Chiesa might also be a good inclusion, and perhaps even Darwin Nunez, who could benefit from a goal. That would make a strong front three for the match.

In midfield, Harvey Elliott could use the minutes, as could Curtis Jones. This also seems like a good game for Alexis Mac Allister to regain some rhythm, especially since he hasn’t played since the Newcastle match, which will have been two weeks by Wednesday. So that covers the frontline and midfield.

However, Liverpool’s injury concerns are at the back. Southampton, who were heavily beaten by Tottenham on Sunday and have lost their manager, Russell Martin, may have something to prove as well.

So, how seriously should manager Jürgen Klopp take this match? For Aldridge, the Carabao Cup is crucial, especially since it’s the quarter-finals. He points out that it provided one of the best moments of last season when Liverpool’s young players triumphed over Chelsea in the final. The Carabao Cup is also the competition Liverpool has won the most, making it worth pursuing. Despite injury concerns, Liverpool boasts a strong squad and should push for the win. Southampton has its own problems, with a focus on Premier League survival likely at the forefront of their minds.

Winning the Carabao Cup could provide a huge boost for Liverpool, adding to the fixture list but also creating lasting memories, as evidenced by their Wembley victory earlier this year. Aldridge expresses a clear desire to win the competition.