Saints 1-6 Liverpool, plus cup draw

1. Semi-final draw: Everton v Man City
2. Semi-final draw: Stoke v Liverpool
3. Origi's first goals for Liverpool
4. Sturridge with two precise strikes
5. Busy night of cup action in Spain too

And that, ladies and gentleman, is all from us.

Thanks for your company and enjoy the rest of your evening.

Ta-ra.

FULL-TIME

It's an easy victory for Real Madrid but is it the end of their involvement in this season's Copa del Rey?

Reports in Spain suggest Denis Cheryshev, who scored the opening goal, should have been suspended for the last-32 first leg tie, after picking up three bookings in last season's competition while on loan at Villarreal.

The Cadiz board say they will meet to discuss their options after this game. Real Madrid would surely appeal any punishment. Looks like a very big story is developing.

Oh, Isco scored twice for Real and Kike netted for third-division Cadiz - but few are likely to remember those details.

The back pages

The back pages are dropping in...

Cadiz crowd taunt Benitez

The Cadiz fans are enjoying themselves, with reports they are chanting: "Benitez, look at Twitter" at the Real Madrid coach.

They have a goal to celebrate, too, as Kike makes it 3-1. The visitors are more worried about their future in the competition. 

It seems first goalscorer Denis Cheryshev should have been suspended for the tie after picking up three bookings in last season's Copa del Rey when on loan at Villarreal.

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Real facing Copa exit?

Conflicting reports from Spain indicate Real Madrid may have not one but TWO ineligible players in their squad for this Copa del Rey tie.

It is suggested goalscorer Denis Cheryshev should have been suspended for this game after collecting three bookings for Villarreal in last year's competition.

One television station then claimed young forward Borja Mayoral should not have been on the bench after he was sent off in last season's Youth Cup Final - although this has not been confirmed.

On the pitch, Isco's second goal of the night has put Real in command ahead of the home leg.

Spanish newspaper AS is suggesting Real Madrid are in trouble here...

Record breakers?

Liverpool already have the most League Cup wins to their name, having lifted the cup eight times.

Will they make it nine?

It is a pretty formidable semi-final line up...

Something amused you Gerard?

The Barcelona defender could be laughing at anything of course...

Isco on target

The Denis Cheryshev confusion looks set to overshadow this tie but whatever happens, Isco has doubled Real Madrid's lead.

The real story, however, is whether Cheryshev was eligible for the game at all after picking up three bookings in last season's Copa del Rey while on loan at Villarreal.

Cheryshev confusion

Bizarre goings-on in Cadiz: Real Madrid goalscorer Denis Cheryshev plays the first 30 SECONDS of the second half, before he is promptly replaced by Mateo Kovacic.

While on loan at Villarreal, the Russian picked up bookings against Barcelona, Getafe and Real Sociedad in last season's Copa del Rey.

According to some reports in Spain, those three yellow cards mean Cheryshev should have been suspended tonight's last-32, first leg Copa del Rey tie against the third-tier side. 

One to watch this one...

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"You don't come to Liverpool for the weather."

More from Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp on Sky Sports: "We do not have magic ideas. It's about working hard. You cannot be in Liverpool because of the weather, so it must be because of the football club. 

"We need luck with injuries but the squad is strong enough for us to be challengers. 

"At the moment, we don't have to be any more than that. If you shoot the ball between the posts, it's better than when you don't do it."

Not a fan of the rain then Jurgen?

AFP

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Maybe a slight exaggeration Mahesh, but I see where you are coming from.

More Klopp reaction

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp talking to Sky Sports: 

"This isn't the first time we've talked about this [Daniel Sturridge's fitness]. We try to do what we can to keep him fit. 

"Sometimes it can be bad luck, even for a long period, but he felt good during the game and at the end of it. 

"He doesn't have to play in all the games, but if we can decide when is the right moment to fight, and when is the right moment for recovery, everything should be OK."

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The Liverpool goalkeeper enjoyed his side's 6-1 drubbing of Southampton from the bench this evening.

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Saving it for the final perhaps Rob?

League Cup semi-final draw reaction

What's your thoughts on that draw then?

Stoke will play Liverpool, while Everton take on Manchester City.

The first legs will be played on the week beginning January 4 and the second legs on the week commencing January 25.

A day out at Wembley awaits the winners.

League Cup draw reaction

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp on Sky Sports:

"It was my first draw I saw live. Balls number 1,2,3 and 4 in a row,. Are you sure?"

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League Cup semi-final draw

Stoke v Liverpool

League Cup semi-final draw

Everton v Manchester City

League Cup semi-final draw

A few nerves among Everton, Liverpool, Stoke and Manchester City fans...

Here we go..

Nearly there...

Still waiting for the League Cup semi-final draw?

Yep, us too...

Not long now.

Copa delight for Nevilles

On his first full day as Valencia coach, Gary Neville has a win to celebrate.

Of course, Neville doesn't take charge officially until next week, but he will surely have found a way to follow this Copa del Rey tie.

With Neville's brother Phil assisting interim coach Voro, Valencia recovered from 1-0 down against third-division Barakaldo and are well placed for a spot in the last 16 ahead of the second leg.

Joao Cancelo, Jose Gaya and Dani Parejo scored for Valencia.

HALF-TIME

AFP

Denis Cheryshev's early goal means Real Madrid have their noses in front against the third-division side.

Cristiano Ronaldo and Gareth Bale miss out for Real, but there is a place in the starting XI for James Rodriguez following reports of a rift with coach Rafa Benitez.

The winner over two legs will advance to the last 16 of the Copa del Rey.

Trouble ahead for Real Madrid?

Real Madrid still lead thanks to Denis Cheryshev's goal - but there is some confusion in Spain about whether he should be on the pitch.

While on loan at Villarreal, the Russian picked up bookings against Barcelona, Getafe and Real Sociedad in last season's Copa del Rey.

According to some reports in Spain, Cheryshev should be suspended against Cadiz in tonight's last-32, first leg. 

Manager reaction

Southampton boss Ronald Koeman on Sky Sports: "That is not the result we expect. A great start but if you make the mistakes defensively we did in the first half and the top quality of Liverpool, then you can lose.

"The second half is my responsibility. I changed the system, I made the risk of three at the back.

"The first goal of Liverpool is a throw-in and you see how easily they play, that is not good. The have a great energy and they have qualities in the team. 

"We gave them that space, those opportunities and if you give a man like Daniel Sturridge that space he will kill you."

AFP

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We will find out soon Laura...

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Steve Claridge

BBC Radio 5 Live at St Mary's Stadium

"Are Liverpool contenders for the title? You can only go on what we saw tonight and things can change quickly. This was mesmerising. 

It was a complete performance and a big warning to the rest of the league. The challenge for Jurgen Klopp and Liverpool now is to find a way to break down teams who will go to Anfield, sit deep and not allow Liverpool to play through them, but there is something very good happening. 

"People talk about a ‘new-manager bounce’, but this is a complete change of direction from the [Brendan Rodgers regime]. Everyone looks happy and everyone knows his job. You would not play that way if you did not believe in what you were doing.

"If you forget the first 10 minutes, it was almost the perfect performance from Liverpool. Daniel Sturridge’s two goals were just a little taster. There is more to come from him. It was wonderful."

Player reaction

Adam Lallana on Sky Sports:

"That would have been difficult to believe. We started sloppily, but showed great character. Studge showed what he is about and credit to Divock as well. We have strength in depth if you look at the bench.

"We want to keep the momentum we have gained. It is not a miracle what he {Klopp} has done, he has come in and put his ethos into the squad.

"We know we still have some way to go."

Reuters

I see what they have done there. Get it?

Quartet await draw

The League Cup semi-final draw isn't far away.

Manchester City, Stoke, Everton and Liverpool are waiting,

Who do you want?

FULL-TIME

Steve Claridge

BBC Radio 5 Live at St Mary's Stadium

This was mesmerising at times. After two or three moves in the first half from Southampton, Liverpool controlled the game and did not allow their opponents to get into the game. It was a complete performance and a big warning to the rest of the league.

Hat-trick man Divock Origi on Sky Sports: 

"I am going to ask the referee for the match ball afterwards. We showed a great mentality as a team."

FULL-TIME

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And still they come...

Emre Can bursts his way through down the right but his low shot is kept out by Maarten Stekelenburg.

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The gulf in class is bewildering.

Southampton have played a strong side and have gone for it.

They started well as well - but the last 70 minutes has been embarrassing.

Liverpool just too good.Two minutes injury time signalled.

No one will want to draw this revitalised Liverpool side in the semi-final.

They just don't stop pressing.

Reuters

GOAL - Southampton 1-6 Liverpool

Reuters

Steve Claridge

BBC Radio 5 Live at St Mary's Stadium

Southampton have never given up. They have kept trying to play, kept trying to press. They haven't played badly, but Liverpool have just been streets ahead.

Southampton are still giving it a go.

It is all pretty pointless though as Shane Long weakly volleys wide.

They have simply been out classed - bar the opening 20 minutes.

Steve Claridge

BBC Radio 5 Live at St Mary's Stadium

This has been very, very good - and that is me trying to play it down. After watching Liverpool's performances against Chelsea and Manchester City, it's wrong to say people are getting carried away.

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp is looking a very contented man at the moment.

Stay tuned for his post-match interview. It could be a belter.

Southampton fans though are slowly leaving the ground... 

What a miserable evening for the Saints.

PA

Precise shooting from Jurgen Klopp's side, making every chance count.

SUBSTITUTION

More good news for Liverpool as skipper Jordan Henderson returns from injury.

The midfielder replaces Joe Allen.

Steve Claridge

BBC Radio 5 Live at St Mary's Stadium

Every time they go forward, they can score if they want. Liverpool just look different class.

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Remember the League Cup semi-final draw will be brought to you here after this match.

Everton, Manchester City and Stoke await...

Origi gaining in confidence

Phil McNulty

BBC Sport chief football writer at St. Mary's

When Jurgen Klopp took over at Liverpool, he revealed he had been keen to bring Divock Origi to Borussia Dortmund but missed out.

After his first match in charge at Spurs he said: "We will have a lot of fun with this player."

And there was plenty of fun to be had from the young Belgian here as his second of the night, Liverpool's fourth, was a really thunderous strike.

This has been a superb Liverpool performance after a slow start.

GOAL - Southampton 1-5 Liverpool

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Give Jurgen Klopp the freedom of Liverpool now?

The visiting fans are in dreamland as Jordan Ibe takes Alberto Moreno's cross on his chest and drills home from 18 yards.

What a night for Liverpool.

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Copa dey Rey tweets are welcome too

Steve Claridge

BBC Radio 5 Live at St Mary's Stadium

If you forget the first 10 minutes, it's been almost the perfect performance from Liverpool. You fear for Southampton now.

GOAL - Southampton 1-4 Liverpool

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Liverpool centre mid getting some praise tonight

Goal for Real Madrid

They start, they shoot, they score. Denis Cheryshev - linked with Liverpool in the past - fires Real Madrid ahead at third-division Cadiz.

That man James Rodriguez teed up the Russian, who volleyed home. The winner of this two-leg tie will secure a spot in the Copa del Rey last 16.

Virgil van Dijk places the ball on the ground, takes a couple of steps back...

The defender is taking this...

Poor. He smacks the ball straight at the wall and it is cleared.

Reuters

Shane Long almost makes an instant impact as he glances a header just wide of goal.

Free-kick for Southampton 30 yards out now though...

SUBSTITUTION

And could this make the difference?

A double change for Southampton as forward Shane Long replaces midfielder Jordy Clasie and midfielder James Ward-Prowse comes on for defender Cedric Soares.

Ronald Koeman is going for it.

Ronaldo-less Real Madrid kick off

With Cristiano Ronaldo and Gareth Bale absent, all eyes are on James Rodriguez as Real Madrid kick off their Copa del Rey tie at Cadiz.

With the second leg of the last 32 tie to come at the Bernabeu, James' performance should be headline news following reports of a rift with coach Rafa Benitez.

Where is the belief Southampton?

Where is the noise from the home fans?

You get the feeling this match is drifting towards a Liverpool victory. The hosts need to make something happen.

Steve Claridge

BBC Radio 5 Live at St Mary's Stadium

That's just a little taster for you from Daniel Sturridge. There is more to come. Wonderful.

SUBSTITUTION

Night over for Daniel Sturridge.

Not a bad contribution either as his two goals helped turned this tie around.

The striker is replaced by Jordan Ibe.

AFP

Former Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard has been training with the club to keep himself fit before returning to LA Galaxy in January for the new Major League Soccer season.  

He won't play but that doesn't stop Liverpool fans from singing his name.

Steve Claridge

BBC Radio 5 Live at St Mary's Stadium

Jurgen Klopp is right to use Adam Lallana in a central role. Don't play him wide, where he doesn't have the pace. But he has the trickery and the ability to see what's around him when he plays in the middle.

Sadio Mane latches on to a pass from Cedric Soares inside the penalty area but his attempted pull back is cut out.

Southampton pushing.

Reuters

Adam Lallana is enjoying himself.

The Liverpool midfielder collects the ball 40 yards from goal, turns, cuts inside and sends a shot well wide.

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Southampton are giving this a go.

They need a goal fairly soon though.

A Liverpool goal and you have to say it is game over.

Southampton's Graziano Pelle chases the ball towards goal, he appears to be tugged by Martin Skrtel, but still gets his shot away from the edge of the penalty area. Easy for goalkeeper Adam Bodgan though.

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Barca hit six

It's a hat-trick for Sandro Ramirez to send Barcelona comfortably into the last 16 of the Copa del Rey.

There was to be no repeat of the surprise 0-0 draw in the first leg as third-division Villanovense could not cope at the Nou Camp.

Without Lionel Messi, Neymar or Luis Suarez, Dani Alves grabbed the first for Barca and young forward Munir scored twice. Juanfran - not that one - briefly made it 2-1 for Villanovense.

Steve Claridge

BBC Radio 5 Live at St Mary's Stadium

Southampton have switched to three at the back. I don't think Ronald Koeman was happy with how his two centre-backs were dealing with Liverpool's strikers, so he has put Victor Wanyama there to tidy up around them.

A tactical switch for Southampton as they go three at the back.

Victor Wanyama moves alongside Steven Caulker and Virgil van Dijk.

Ryan Bertrand on the right for Saints.

Graziano Pelle sets himself for an overhead kick but the ball is cleared before it gets to him.

Decent start for the Saints.

KICK-OFF

Can Southampton rescue this?

We are go.

Dan's the man

Rex Features

Are you watching Roy Hodgson?

Jamie Vardy, Harry Kane, Daniel Sturridge....... oh, and Wayne Rooney.

What a selection for England.

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Helen Barker: Stale Solbakken Wolves. No clue about English football

John Brown: Dean Saunders to well, anywhere

And one that is going quite well...

Richard Thomas: Claudio Ranieri at Leicester ...and more successful than Nigel Pearson who did an amazing job keeping them up last season 

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Liverpool turn it around

Phil McNulty

BBC Sport chief football writer at St. Mary's

Southampton started as if they were going to sweep Liverpool aside but Daniel Sturridge's equaliser sent them crashing to the canvas.

Liverpool have been in complete command since then and there has been little evidence that Saints can force their way back into this.

Some job for Ronald Koeman to lift his players at half-time.

Reuters

The start for Divock...

Divock Origi hasn't had the most inspired of starts to his Liverpool career but the winger now at least has his first goal.

This is his 11th appearance for the Reds and never will he have scored with such a slight touch before.

He won't care. They all count...

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Who needs Messi or Neymar?

Well, Villanovense are in the third tier. But Barcelona can only defeat what's in front of them (ever heard that before?) and now Munir has his second goal.

Wonder who Barca will face in the last 16 of the Copa del Rey.

HALF-TIME

Steve Claridge

BBC Radio 5 Live at St Mary's Stadium

It's been stunning from Liverpool. The movement, the enthusiasm, the closing down, the ability to pass the ball and open up Southampton has been incredible at times.

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Hat-trick for Sandro Ramirez

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Tottenham fans take note: Sandro Ramirez has his third goal for Barcelona. They now lead Villanovense, of the third division, 5-1.

After a 0-0 draw in the first leg, Barca are looking forward to the last 16 of the Copa del Rey, thanks largely to their young forward who has been linked with Spurs.

Steve Claridge

BBC Radio 5 Live at St Mary's Stadium

Liverpool are probably worth their lead. After Southampton's great start, they have dominated the last half-hour.

Reuters

HALF-TIME

Liverpool are in control.

They almost make it 4-1 in the last second as Divock Origi crosses from the right and Southampton just about clear.

GOAL - Southampton 1-3 Liverpool

Game over?

A corner is swung over from the right. The ball finds Alberto Moreno 20 yards out and his angled low drive sneaks in at the near post.

There was a deflection off Divock Origi there... he will claim it and rightly so.

Reuters

Stand down.

Daniel Sturridge takes a couple of steps back and curls horribly over.

Chance for Liverpool.

Daniel Sturridge and Emre Can standing over a free-kick 20 yards out...

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First goal of the Gary Neville era

Okay, so Red Nev isn't technically in charge yet. But we're sure he's watching and probably punched the air when Joao Cancelo scored for Valencia.

The La Liga side had conceded a surprise opener to Barakaldo, of the Spanish third tier. But they are back on track in this Copa del Rey last-32 tie, with the home leg to come.

Not sure Alberto Moreno needs to be holding his face...

The Liverpool man collapses holding his face under the challenge of Dusan Tadic.

Looked like the contact was nearer his throat - if there was any. Drop ball given.

Reuters

No Ronaldo or Bale for Real Madrid

Fans of exaggerated goal celebrations, we're sorry to tell youCristiano Ronaldowill not be in theReal Madridside for their Copa del Rey tie at Cadiz.

Neither willGareth Bale, but they still have a strong XI for this first leg game against the third-division club. 

Amid rumours of a rift withRafa Benitez, James Rodriguezstarts for Real, with the winner gaining a place in the last 16.

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Excellent knowledge of the BBC Sport football page

Imagine what a player Daniel Sturridge would be if he could stay fit.

The Liverpool striker has showed his predatory instincts in front of goal in his first 25 minutes as a starter under Jurgen Klopp.

Southampton struggling to get their game going again at the moment...

Reuters

Sturridge punishes Saints

Phil McNulty

BBC Sport chief football writer at St. Mary's

Southampton started well and had the perfect start but they switched off and how Liverpool - or more precisely Daniel Sturridge - have punished them.

Two contrasting finishes demonstrate what Liverpool have missed during his many injuries. What a turnaround and Saints fans are now hugely frustrated.

Steve Claridge

BBC Radio 5 Live at St Mary's Stadium

That is unbelievable football from Emre Can. A perfect pass to Daniel Sturridge with the outside of his right boot, right into his path and it was a wonderful finish.

The majority at St Mary's have been stunned into silence.

The hosts were in complete control for 25 minutes and, suddenly, they find themselves behind.

The Liverpool fans are enjoying themselves.

Munir on target

Munir El Haddadi, capped by Spain after he'd been barely been in the Barcelona team five minutes, makes it four for the Catalans.

They lead the Copa del Rey tie 4-1 on the night, after a 0-0 draw at Villanovense in the first leg. We can safely say there will be no shocks here.

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GOAL - Southampton 1-2 Liverpool

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Now that is beautiful.

A sensational outside of the right boot pass from Emre Can beats Southampton's defence all-ends up and Daniel Sturridge finishes with a smart half volley.

Looks like Sturridge isn't feeling the pain any more...

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Steve Claridge

BBC Radio 5 Live at St Mary's Stadium

It looked like Daniel Sturridge had lost his chance but Steven Caulker needed to get a lot closer to him there.

Reuters

GOAL - Southampton 1-1 Liverpool

Reuters

Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp is not looking happy.

His side have hardly been in this.

Reuters

Liverpool trying to calm things down. A bit of possession finally from the visitors.

Comes to nothing though.

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Steve Claridge

BBC Radio 5 Live at St Mary's Stadium

The way Liverpool are playing, they're allowing the players in front of Lucas in midfield to get after Southampton. So they're not trying to shut it down and it's an open game.

Lawrie McMenemy is pictured in the St Mary's crowd.

He was part of Southampton's team who last won a major trophy - their 1976 FA Cup winning team.

Could this be their year?

Valencia underway

With Phil Neville assisting interim boss Voro, Valencia kick off their Copa del Rey tie at third-division Barakaldo.

It's the first leg of a last-32 tie. Wonder if Gary Neville is watching?

Adam Lallana is caught in possession and Sadio Mane is sent clear down the right.

He finds Dusan Tadic on the edge of the penalty area but his attempted shot is crowded out.

Southampton showing Liverpool their own version of high pressing...

Lovely stuff in the middle from Adam Lallana as he breaks away from his markers,

The ball is slipped through to Divock Origi but his pull back is behind Daniel Sturridge and Southampton clear.

Signs the visitors have finally woken up.

Don't forget there will be a winner this evening.

No replays.

At the moment, Southampton look like winning this in normal time.

They are on the attack again but, this time, a cross from the right is easy for Adam Bogdan.

Reuters

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The youngster has had a tough start to this match

Steve Claridge

BBC Radio 5 Live at St Mary's Stadium

It looks like Liverpool are playing a 4-3-1-2, with Adam Lallana playing just behind the strikers.

Southampton taking aim

Phil McNulty

BBC Sport chief football writer at St. Mary's

Southampton have made Liverpool's young defender Connor Randall a real target here - and he now has the extra pressure of a yellow card for a foul on Dusan Tadic.

Not all his fault for the goal though. Alberto Moreno makes a habit of ball-watching and he was at it again there, standing still as Sadio Mane headed in.

Here come Liverpool. 

Adam Lallana bursts forward down the right and forces a corner. He receives the obligatory boos of course.

They becomes cheers as he over hits his corner and it is a Southampton throw...

All going to plan for Barcelona

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It's half-time at the Nou Camp, where two goals from Sandro Ramirez have given Barcelona a comfortable cushion against their third-division opponents Villanovense.

After a 0-0 draw in the first leg, Barca are heading for the last 16 of the Copa del Rey, despite Juanfran's surprise strike that briefly made it 2-1.

Liverpool are all over the place.

Young right-back Connor Randall is having a bit of a shocker as well early on. He is booked as he drags down Dusan Tadic.

From the resulting free-kick, Steven Davis curls over from the edge of the penalty area.

Another good chance.

AFP

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CLOSE!

It's almost 2-0.

Liverpool can't cope with Southampton's tempo early on as the hosts go for the jugular.

This time, Dusan Tadic performs a bit of trickery on the left before whipping in a cross that Victor Wanyama heads straight at Adam Bogdan.

AFP

St Mary's is jumping.

Taking the lead after 39 seconds is surely beyond Southampton's wildest dreams.

The fans have still got time to boo their former defender Dejan Lovren as well...

Steve Claridge

BBC Radio 5 Live at St Mary's Stadium

Alberto Moreno should really be putting his arm across Sadio Mane there to stop him making the run, but it's a really good finish.

GOAL - Southampton 1-0 Liverpool

Reuters

What a start.

Ryan Bertrand whips in a delicious cross from the right and Sadio Mane is left unopposed to head home from close range.

Where was Liverpool's defence?

KICK-OFF

We are under way...

Steve Claridge

BBC Radio 5 Live at St Mary's Stadium

Ronald Koeman is saying to Southampton: 'I can go to the next level. Will you come with me?'

A reminder of the line-ups before we get going...

Southampton XI: Stekelenburg, Cedric, van Dijk, Caulker, Bertrand, Clasie, Wanyama, Davis, Mane, Tadic, Pelle.

Liverpool starting XI: Bogdan, Randall, Skrtel, Lovren, Moreno, Can, Lucas, Allen, Lallana, Origi, Sturridge.

The teams are on their way out.

St Mary's is a sell out and there is a place in the League Cup semi-final up for grabs.

This could be tasty...

Keeping it clean

And why would he want a new keeper?

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Steve Claridge

BBC Radio 5 Live at St Mary's Stadium

Jurgen Klopp has worked Daniel Sturridge out very quickly. He has gone in hard and whatever he says about translation, we know what he meant.

Praise for Liverpool coach's approach to his striker's persistent injury problems.

'Sorry to kill your stories'

Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp has denied speculation he is seeking a replacement for goalkeeper Simon Mignolet.

Before his first transfer window at Anfield, Klopp has been linked with a number of keepers, including Stoke's England international Jack Butland.

But he said: "I'm absolutely satisfied with our goalkeeper situation.

"I'm sorry to kill your stories about German goalkeepers and different goalkeepers from Stoke - we are not looking for another goalkeeper."

Sprinklers on at St. Mary's

Phil McNulty

BBC Sport chief football writer at St Mary's

The surface here at Southampton is getting a real soaking ten minutes before kick-off.

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has noted the transfer traffic between St. Mary's at Anfield in the last couple of seasons - with Rickie Lambert, Adam Lallana, Dejan Lovren and Nathaniel Clyne making the move to Merseyside from Southampton - and is not expecting a "friendly" fixture.

PA

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Goal! And another!

Barcelona were stunned briefly as Villanovense pulled one back - only for Sandro Ramirez to restore their two-goal lead with his second almost immediately.

Juanfran (not the Spain and Atletico Madrid right-back) hammered home from the edge of the box for the minnows, but Sandro's reply keeps Barca firmly on course for the last 16 of the Copa del Rey.

After a 0-0 draw in the first leg, Luis Enrique's side are well in command.

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H: Kevin Cullis 8 February 1996 to 14 February 1996 -  lasted 6 days. Ex coach of non-league club Cradley Town.

Alex Bishop: Leroy Rosenior at Torquay United for 10 minutes

And one that went quite well...

Omiachi Job: Roberto Di Matteo. We won Champions League that season.

We want to know what surprise managerial appointments have been made at your team - any level - and whether it worked or not.

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Manager view

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp on Sky Sports: "I am very pleased to have Daniel Sturridge available. He is a big step ahead and in good shape, we should use him. He is looking forward to tonight and I am too.

"I didn't count the changes, thank you for counting them. I cannot ignore the last game, I cannot ignore the next game. 

"We need to have the best line-up on the pitch which is what he have tonight. Changes are only because of the game we played against Swansea and need to be fresh."

Laughing all the way to Wembley?

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So how's Jurgen Klopp settling in at Liverpool?

I'm not sure you will hear many complaints from Reds fans. 

Out of 10 matches in all competitions, they have won six, and lost just one.

They also have a boss with one of the most engaging laughs in football. The start of a return to the glory days? 

Past masters

.

Liverpool know what they are doing in this competition.

No one has won it more than the eight times Liverpool have lifted the trophy.

The Reds are looking to reach the semi-final stage for the third time in five seasons.

They've only won it once in that times though.

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GorgieTiger: Anatoliy Korobochka. Looked like a retired hitman, one of Vladimir Romanov's insane appointment at Hearts.

math: Alex McLeish at Villa has to be the worst appointment

Book Man Dan: Neil Warnock for Bury. He was a disaster, as usual. He considered the job beneath him.

We want to know what surprise managerial appointments have been made at your team - any level - and whether it worked or not.

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Barcelona double their lead

It's starting to look ominous for the third-division club as Sandro Ramirez - a player linked with Tottenham earlier this season - puts Barcelona 2-0 up on the night, after a 0-0 draw in the first leg.

It's safe to say they already have one foot in the last 16 of the Copa del Rey.

Manager view

Southampton boss Ronald Koeman on Sky Sports: "I think we are close together football, ability and level, I look forward to it.

"We have our way of playing and if we play our level, we know we can create the spaces. There is a lot of possibilities to create.

"They like to press high and we can't make mistakes."

Will the Saints go marching on?

AFP

Losing so many key players hasn't exactly harmed Southampton though has it? 

The Saints, who were playing in League One in 2010, finished seventh in the Premier league last season in Ronald Koeman's first campaign in charge - and are in the top 10 again this season.

This is their second successive league cup quarter-final, having lost to Sheffield United at this stage last season.

The last time they went beyond this stage was in 1987, losing to opponents Liverpool in the semi-final.

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Josh Shreeve: Jean Black Ngody of Kettering Town fame at Chesham Athletic. Couldn't turn up to games, put up goals, or field 11 men.

James Lazenby: Chris Sutton at Lincoln City and it definitely didn't work...

John Kelly: David Hockaday at Leeds. Just awful.

We want to know what surprise managerial appointments have been made at your team - any level - and whether it worked or not.

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Not the most stable job then...

The heat is on

I hear Southampton and Liverpool are not the best friends, so it will be a feisty game."

Jurgen KloppLiverpool manager

Not the best of friends you say Jurgen?

The Reds did take Adam Lallana, Rickie Lambert, Dejan Lovren, Nathaniel Clyne off them a couple of summers ago...

No wonder the Saints aren't their biggest fans. 

Tackled from behind

Phil McNulty

BBC Sport chief football writer at St. Mary's

Getty Images

Just been kicked from behind by former Liverpool and Saints hard man Jimmy Case in the Southampton press box. He's apologised but not sure he meant it. Just like old times.  

Goal at the Nou Camp

AFP

And Villanovense take th... just kidding. Barcelona are in front after five minutes and it's one of their few regulars, Dani Alves, who's on target, lashing in a shot from outside the box.

After a 0-0 draw in the first leg of this fourth-round tie, the Spanish champions have taken control early on against their third-tier opponents.

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Calum Readhead: Ramon Diaz to Oxford.

Tom Griffiths: Roy Hodgson at Liverpool was massively left field. And terrible!

Kevin Johnson: Pochettino at Southampton/ Tottenham - never expected Adkins to be sacked but he's done well at both teams since

We want to know what surprise managerial appointments have been made at your team - any level - and whether it worked or not.

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Mickey Mouse?

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How important is the League Cup? Some dismiss it as a tad 'Mickey Mouse', while there are managers who opt to use the competition as something of a reserve cup.

Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp and Southampton's Ronald Koeman have been very much talking it up though in recent days.

And, with a place in Europe and a day out of at Wembley on offer, why wouldn't they?

No excuses both want to win this...

BBC Radio 5 Live

The build-up starts on BBC Radio 5 live now...

Can Klopp cash in?

Phil McNulty

BBC Sport chief football writer at St. Mary's

Reuters

Liverpool's new manager Jurgen Klopp has been given the chance to make an instant impact and challenge for a trophy with a place in the last four of the Capital One Cup up for grabs against Southampton here tonight.

The trademark Klopp smile has already been seen here at St. Mary's as he has been out on the pitch posing for pictures with young fans.

And he gives Daniel Sturridge a start tonight after delivering a rather heavy hint last week that the injury-plagued striker needs to make the distinction between pain and serious pain.

Klopp will not be carrying any passengers on this Liverpool journey so Sturridge will have to deliver a swift statement of intent.

Team news

Southampton name a strong side for the quarter-final clash, with star man Sadio Mane, powerhouse midfielder Victor Wanyama and big frontman Graziano Pelle all starting.

Southampton XI: Stekelenburg, Cedric, van Dijk, Caulker, Bertrand, Clasie, Wanyama, Davis, Mane, Tadic, Pelle

Liverpool striker Daniel Sturridge gets his first start since the Merseyside derby in October, hoping his injury problems are finally over. Youngster Connor Randall starts in defence, with goalkeeper Adam Bogdan replacing Simon Mignolet in between the sticks.

Liverpool starting XI: Bogdan, Randall, Skrtel, Lovren, Moreno, Can, Lucas, Allen, Lallana, Origi, Sturridge

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Nick Higginson: Dr. Joe Venglos

Michael Barnsfield: John Toshack at Real Madrid

David Turnbull: Only one Joe Kinnear!? Newcastle .  

Venglos left fans having nightmares both north and south of the border.

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'Smile'

Reuters

It's photo time at St Mary's...

Up for the cup?

Reuters

This is what they are playing for. You can't beat the atmosphere of a cup-tie under lights...

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Alex Bullard: Alex Neil - total unknown south of the border when he was appointed, but he's done fantastically well so far.

Peter Gill: Eddie Howe coming back to Bournemouth, never expected it but I think it went ok!

The Waterloo Gooner: Arsene Wenger, the best surprise appointment ever. Arsene who?

We want to know what surprise managerial appointments have been made at your team - any level - and whether it worked or not.

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Messi given a breather

EPA

Lionel Messi is among a host of big names left out of Barcelona's starting XI for the Copa del Rey tie with third-division Villanovense (kick-off 19:00 GMT).

Neymar, Luis Suarez and Andres Iniesta are on the bench but Messi is given a complete rest as youngsters Munir El Haddadi, Sandro Ramirez and Sergi Samper get their chance.

After drawing the first leg 0-0, it would probably be the biggest shock of the season if Barca failed to reach the next round. Make that shock of the century.

Valencia in action after Neville appointment

Gary Neville's new team Valencia travel to Barakaldo, who play in the Spanish third tier, in the last-32 of the Copa del Rey.

Phil Neville will be alongside interim coach Voro on the bench in the Basque country - and his elder brother will expect a full briefing after the game.

Barcelona and Real Madrid are also in action, with under-pressure Rafa Benitez taking Real to third-division Cadiz for the first leg.

Barca have already drawn their first leg - 0-0 at Villanovense, another third-tier club - and should progress with ease.

Team news

PA

The team news is in and striker Daniel Sturridge makes his first start for Liverpool under boss Jurgen Klopp.

What is serious pain though Daniel?

Full teams to follow.

BBC Radio 5 Live

Not sure whether to listen to the radio or follow live text? You can do both here.

There is plenty of stuff for you to stay across this evening - and you can get it all online.

You can listen to BBC Radio 5 live commentary from 19:45 GMT, plus get all the live text, best of social media and the best images.

Put the kettle on and enjoy.

Get Involved

PA

Nothing like a left-field managerial appointment to put the cat among the pigeons eh?

And Gary Neville being made Valencia head coach was so left field it was almost still in the changing rooms.

We want to know what surprise managerial appointments have been made at your team - any level - and whether it worked or not.

Tweet #bbcfootball,text 81111 or post on Match of the Day Facebook.

One place left

Welcome.

Three of the League Cup semi-finalists have already been sorted.

Manchester City, Everton and Stoke are already safely through and will be waiting for tonight's draw with interest - and a bit of anxiety.

First though, Southampton and Liverpool will do battle at St Mary's for the honour of joining the Premier League trio. Stay with us.

The wait goes on...

Getting a little bit impatient Liverpool fans?

It's getting on four years since your last bit of major silverware...

Getty Images

Liverpool won the League Cup in 2012

Spare a thought for Southampton though.

Their last major success came in 1976...

About time isn't it Saints fans?

getty

Southampton lifted the FA Cup in 1976