RONALD KOEMAN believes the key to defeating Jurgen Klopp's improving Liverpool comes in understanding the German's pressing game.
Much has been spoken about Klopp's favoured 'gegenpressing' system, with which he inspired such success at Borussia Dortmund and has worked well during his short time at Anfield.
However, Koeman is convinced Southampton have the measure of the system ahead of tonight's Capital One Cup quarter-final clash against the new-look Reds.
"We know Liverpool like to press and if you beat the press then you have a lot of options and possibilities," the Southampton manager said.
"Liverpool have the fast transition when they get the ball. When you lose the ball, they play a different system to most teams with one striker and then two strikers behind the striker. It's hard to have a good defensive organisation.
"I'm not afraid. I prepare my team always about what we can do and how we beat the press and then we have good opportunities to create chances."
Next year represents the 40th anniversary of Southampton's last major trophy, having famously shocked Manchester United to win the 1976 FA Cup.
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| Ronald Koeman reckons understanding Jurgen Klopp's pressing game is key to beating Liverpool |
Several Premier League teams no longer take that competition or the Capital One Cup seriously, but Koeman is determined to achieve success in such competitions because he believes Saints' opportunities are limited elsewhere.
"It's very important because we have, as a Southampton team, two opportunities to win a title," said Koeman, who will replace injured captain Jose Fonte with Steven Caulker.
"One is the FA Cup and the second one is the Capital One Cup. We don't win the Premier League and it's very important [to do well in this match]. First, about the competition we like to reach the semi-final, and, second, after the two defeats the best way to get back full of confidence is winning."
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