Southampton travel to the London Stadium to face West Ham for their first league game under Mark Hughes.
Saints are looking to get back to back wins for the first time this season following the FA Cup quarter-final victory away at Wigan before the international break.
Hughes has now had two full weeks with the majority of his squad to implement his tactics and methods ahead of Saints’ desperate bid to survive following an abysmal season so far.
The last time the two sides met was back in August, as a dramatic game between the two sides ended with a Charlie Austin stoppage-time penalty clinching the three points after Saints threw away a two-goal lead.
With such a crucial game for the Saints ahead, I have picked out three players who will be key if the visitors are to pick up three points at the London Stadium.
Mario Lemina
Lemina has been Saints’ best player this season. Lemina’s ball retention and drive have been second to none. The Gabon international will be vital to Saints’ survival and key if they are to pick up a vital win at West Ham.
Dusan Tadic
Dusan Tadic has had a rather horrendous season. It seems like the last time Tadic performed well in a Saints shirt was the last time the team went to the London Stadium at the start of last season. We all know the quality that Tadic possesses and his ability on and off the ball to create space and goal scoring chances. Tadic will need to be at his best as Saints look to claim the three points.
Manolo Gabbiadini
Manolo Gabbiadini had a horror show away at Wigan, missing a penalty and a golden opportunity. Like Tadic, we all know the natural ability of Gabbiadini and the Italian will need to be in fine form to put any chances that present themselves away.
