Jack Stephens v Virgil van Dijk

Virgil van Dijk will return to Southampton for the first time since his world record January move to Liverpool on Sunday. The Reds paid a club record £75m fee to make Van Dijk the most expensive defender in the world. The 26-year-old has made a stuttering start to his Anfield career. However, Van Dijk will be desperate to leave his mark on this Premier League clash ahead of a presumably frosty reception at St Mary’s. Southampton centre-half Jack Stephens has scored three times in his last three games. The 24-year-old will be a big threat from set-pieces, a known Achilles’ heel for Liverpool. Van Dijk’s aerial ability and organisation skills will be required to ensure Stephens doesn’t net in a fourth successive game. At the other end, Van Dijk will look to score his second goal from a set-piece for Liverpool after his winner against Everton on his debut.

Oriol Romeu v Roberto Firmino

Liverpool legend Jamie Carragher has been speaking in glowing terms about Roberto Firmino this week. The Brazil international is enjoying his best season to date at Anfield. The Liverpool number nine has scored 18 times and made eight assists in all competitions so far this season. His ability to press from the front and versatility across a number of positions in the Liverpool team make him a great asset. Oriol Romeu will be charged with protecting the Southampton defence. The former Chelsea star will have to work hard to ensure Firmino isn’t able to exploit the space between the Southampton midfield and defence.

Ryan Bertrand v Trent Alexander-Arnold

Ryan Bertrand was considered one of England’s next big talents at full-back when he broke through at Chelsea. His career stalled at Stamford Bridge but the 28-year-old has forged a commendable Premier League career at Southampton. His performances at St Mary’s have turned him into a regular in the England set-up, with 19 caps to his name. Liverpool now have a prodigiously talented full-back in their ranks. Trent Alexander-Arnold has huge potential. Jurgen Klopp hasn’t been afraid to rely on the teenager this season. He has scored two goals and made one assist in 15 appearances in all competitions. His ability to offer width to the Liverpool team from his full-back position makes him an important weapon for Klopp. His eagerness to impress, pace and crossing ability should ensure Bertrand has a testing afternoon keeping tabs on both Mohamed Salah and Alexander-Arnold.