Coutinho Flies with Squad, Lallana Left on Merseyside

When Philippe Coutinho underwent a precautionary scan on Thursday, Liverpool fans were left with the fear of facing a difficult away fixture against Southampton without two of their most important attacking players. Adam Lallana picked up a knock on international duty during the first half of a friendly versus Spain, and did not make the trip to the southcoast to return to his former club.

Although our Little Magician is still a doubt, he was seen boarding a plane to Southampton with the rest of the team, opening up the possibility of his inclusion in one form or another today. Considering his sparkling form so far this season—for both club and country—his is an absence we would like to do without.

If Coutinho is deemed not fit enough to start, Liverpool still have several attacking options to consider. Georginio Wijnaldum would appear to be the logical choice to slot right into the Lallana role. And if Coutinho also misses out, Daniel Sturridge is likely to get the nod to start up top, pushing Roberto Firmino out wide to take Phil’s place. Despite Sturridge not scoring in league action this season, he has looked hungry to get off the mark in each of his appearances, including hitting the woodwork twice last time out against Watford. Divock Origi—who bagged all of his first three Liverpool goals against Southampton last year—might also be in for a shout.