Puel targets Saints possession

Claude Puel admits Southampton will have to keep hold of the ball if they are to stifle Liverpool when the teams meet in the EFL Cup.

Saints managed a goalless draw when they met the Reds in the league back in November but have gone four games without a win including three straight league defeats before Saturday’s draw with Norwich in the FA Cup.

Puel was pleased with the defensive solidity shown by his team when they last faced off but knows they will have to show more if they want to put themselves in good shape ahead of the semi-final second leg.

(John Powell/Liverpool FC via Getty Images)

“We played this game in the Premier League, it was a strong game for us in defensive organisation,” Puel said.

“It was strong work to keep a good level, but I think it will be important also for this game to have a little more the ball and try to have control of the game.

“I know it’s difficult against this team because of their ability to recover the ball together with their strong pressing. Also, they keep the ball with technical players and quality and organisation.

“It’s a strong challenge and exciting. I think we are not favourite for this game and the second half away is difficult also but we have nothing to lose, just to play good level, to take pleasure and to make a result.”