Saints face a massive test this weekend in the Premier League, as they take on bottom side West Bromwich Albion on Saturday.
After failing to beat Brighton on home soil in another relegation six-pointer, this game will prove to be another significant one, as both teams bid for top flight survival.
West Brom were swept aside at leaders Manchester City on Wednesday night, leaving them three points adrift at the bottom. But victory this weekend could see them draw level on points with Saints, who currently sit 18th, and make the relegation battle take another turn.
The significance of this match for Saints cannot be overestimated, as Mauricio Pellegrino’s men look to end a winless run of 12 league games without victory.
Saturday’s performance will need to be a lot better than Wednesday’s for the South Coast side, whilst West Brom need to regroup after their midweek defeat.
Here’s how I think Alan Pardew’s side will line up…
GK - Ben Foster
With no other serious candidate for the number one spot, Ben Foster is favourite to keep his place in the team.
RB - Allan Nyom
Nyom is likely to return to his best position after playing left-back against Man City.
CB - Ali Gabr
New loan signing Ali Gabr could be handed his first start by Alan Pardew.
CB - Jonny Evans
Evans is set to return to the team following the transfer speculation linking him with a move away.
LB - Kieran Gibbs
Kieran Gibbs could return to the line-up, having missed out in midweek.
CM - Jake Livermore
Livermore could return to the heart of the West Brom midfield on Saturday, despite also not featuring on Wednesday night.
CM - Grzegorz Krychowiak
Krychowiak is expected to retain his starting place.
LM - James McClean
In Nacer Chadli’s absence, James McClean could start on the left flank.
RM - Matt Phillips
Phillips could be drafted back into the West Brom team to replace 19-year-old Sam Field, who started against Man City on Wednesday.
ST - Jay Rodriguez
Former Saint Jay Rodriguez is set to start against his old employers, having been in impressive form for the Baggies as of late.
ST - Daniel Sturridge
Sturridge is set to be given his first start since his arrival on loan from Liverpool.