Southampton will be looking to get back to winning ways on Wednesday evening as they welcome Norwich City to St Mary’s in the FA Cup third round replay.
Saints failed to see off The Canaries in the initial fixture at Carrow Road, succumbing to a 2-2 draw as a result of a late Steven Naismith header, meaning that they will be forced to lock horns once again but this time on home soil.
Claude Puel is set to ring the changes once again for Saints, staying true to his philosophy of rotation in order to keep his men fresh for Sunday’s crucial Premier League battle at home to reigning champions Leicester City.
Although the FA Cup probably shouldn’t be Saints’ main priority at this moment in time, they will hope to get a win under their belts to restore the confidence lost from a treacherous four-game losing streak in the league.
Here’s how I expect Saints to line up.
Harry Lewis
Lewis had a bit of a nightmare debut against Norwich in the previous game, but Puel is likely to keep the faith in the youngster.
Cuco Martina
There’s expected to be a big defensive shakeup and Martina will be set to come in at right-back.
Jack Stephens
Stephens has impressed when called upon at right-back and with Virgil van Dijk doubtful for the game and Jose Fonte still seemingly exiled, it’d be great to see Stephens start in his natural position.
Maya Yoshida
Yoshida is set to keep his place in the team as he deputises for Jose Fonte. He’ll need to work to take Stephens under his wing for the match as the more experienced of the two defenders.
Sam McQueen
McQueen is set to come in for Ryan Bertrand at left-back.
Harrison Reed
Reed started at Carrow Road and was rather harshly substituted, but should come in again for the replay.
James Ward-Prowse
With Sunday’s clash in mind, Puel should look to give Ward-Prowse an opportunity.
Jordy Clasie
Clasie has been impressive as of late and after being on the bench against Burnley, he’s set to start.
Nathan Redmond
Redmond is looking likely to start against his former side.
Jay Rodriguez
Rodriguez was dropped, for some bizarre reason, against Burnley so will most likely take the place of Shane Long against Norwich.
Josh Sims
Sims always looks lively and deserves another chance against Norwich on Wednesday.