1. Rodgers Will Eradicate His Southampton Selection Errors
Liverpool's 2-1 victory over Southampton last Sunday was as ugly as they come. The free-flowing football was lacking, and the Saints were unlucky not to at least come away with a draw. It's pretty tough to criticise much of what Rodgers does, such has been his brilliance as manager since arriving in 2012, but he made a couple of selection errors against Ronald Koeman's side. In fairness, the inclusion of the increasingly woeful Glen Johnson was forced upon the manager, with Jon Flanagan injured, Jose Enrique just as unreliable and new signing Alberto Moreno not ready to play. The latter will probably come straight into the side in place of Johnson for the City game, unless Rodgers feels it's too tough a game to make your debut in. The major mistake the 41-year-old made was starting Lucas Leiva. The 27-year-old Brazilian is nowhere near the player he once was, with injuries cruelly affecting him over the last few years. He was deployed alongside Steven Gerrard at the base of midfield, but the lack of mobility from both was a serious issue. Only one can play, and that man has to be Gerrard. Joe Allen did excellently when he replaced Lucas, and he is the most likely candidate to come into the starting XI against City. Can is another who would add far more than the Brazilian. City's midfield is extremely strong and dynamic, with two of Yaya Toure, Fernando and Fernandinho starting. Liverpool's midfield will need pace and movement, and Lucas simply offers neither these days. With Moreno in for Johnson, and Allen or Can in for Lucas, Liverpool will be primed and raring to go when they face the champions on Monday. Let us know your thoughts on Liverpool's mouthwatering clash with Manchester City in the comments section below.
