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Cape Town - Claude
Puel says his team will go toe-to-toe with Jurgen Klopp's Liverpool in
their Premier League clash at St Mary's on Saturday.
The Saints' handler believes the Reds have great quality but will be looking to exploit any defensive weaknesses in what he feels will be an open encounter.
“It is important to play our game," Puel said. "We will be playing against a very good team with great players, but we have qualities also."
“Liverpool are top of the table for chances created and we are in third. It will be a good game and an open one," he said.
“It is important to have good concentration. We need a good attitude and a good collective, and need to be clinical in front of goal.”
Puel added that Liverpool’s lack of play in Europe could, however, give them an edge in the Premier League title chase.
“They can work all week before their game, the same as Chelsea. This can be the difference.”
Meanwhile, Liverpool's Adam Lallana is an unlikely starter after the 28-year-old limped off during England's 2-2 draw with Spain on Tuesday.
Lallana has been in fine form, netting three goals and providing five assists in 11 games this season.
The Reds top the table with 26 points, one ahead of Chelsea, while Southampton are in 10th with three wins from 11 games, 13 points off the leaders.
Kickoff is at 1700.
