Southampton face a stern test on Wednesday night, as they travel to league leaders Manchester City.
Mauricio Pellegrino’s side will take some confidence to the North-West, after their 4-1 demolition of Everton on Sunday helped them regain their place in the top ten.
Manchester City, who are still unbeaten so far this season, overcame a resilient Huddersfield side after coming from behind to win 2-1 at the John Smith’s Stadium, to extend their lead at the top of the Premier League.
The free-scoring Citizens have netted 42 goals in their opening 13 games so far this season, with a solid Saints defence imperative.
Here’s who I think will need to be on top of their game tomorrow if Saints are to get anything from this match.
Fraser Forster
Forster, to say the least, has been less than impressive as of late, with his recent form drawing lots of criticism from the Southampton faithful.
Man City will undeniably have many shots at goal tomorrow, as they do against everyone, meaning Forster will need to produce his performance of the season so far to give Saints the best possible chance of getting a result, in what is potentially the toughest match of the campaign.
Virgil van Dijk
Virgil van Dijk has been a commanding asset to the side since his return to the first team. He is exceptionally calm on the ball, and very intelligent at reading the game.
The assuring Dutchman will once again need to be at his best to stop the likes of Sergio Aguero and Gabriel Jesus, so that Saints can try and get the ball forward and oppose a threat up front.
Mario Lemina
Southampton’s record signing Mario Lemina made a substitute appearance against Everton at the weekend, having spent a month out with an ankle injury.
If he starts on Wednesday, Lemina will need to stay composed when on the ball, and whilst being aware of what’s around him in defence, he will also need to try and get the ball wide or forward, as Saints try to create chances in the final third.
Charlie Austin
After an impressive display that saw the front man net twice against Everton, Charlie Austin will be hoping that he can retain his starting place on Wednesday.
His role will be just as important as the defence’s. It is likely that Saints will sit back and let City attack them, and chances will be scarce for the visitors. But, if we can create an opportunity, then it is vital that our striker can take them.
If the spine of our team can all perform at their very best tomorrow, then it will give Saints the best opportunity to get something from the match.
