Southampton travel to Swansea on Tuesday in what could be seen as their biggest match in recent history as a Premier League side.
The importance of this match simply cannot be over-estimated. After heartbreak at Everton last weekend, Saints go into this game knowing that only a win is satisfactory if they are to remain in the top-flight.
Mark Hughes’s side climbed out of the relegation zone with the point they gained on Merseyside but are only above 18th-placed Swansea on goal difference, with this crunch match up next.
The Swans lost 1-0 on the South Coast on Saturday after putting in a lacklustre performance at Bournemouth, which they will be looking to bounce back from on home soil.
It has to be said that Saints are playing much better football under Mark Hughes and have been very unlucky on several occasions not to get their rightful reward in matches. This confidence must be taken into Tuesday’s encounter, where victory is imperative.
But who will be decisive for Southampton? We’ve picked out the three key men.
Nathan Redmond
Nathan Redmond has been drafted back into the Saints side by Mark Hughes recently, and for me, he has been exceptional.
Considering the circumstances at the turn of the year, when fans, including myself, were on his back regarding his inconsistency and poor performances, he has bounced back extremely well.
Throughout the Everton game, he was willing to run at his man, attack the Toffees defence and get shots away, which is exactly what Saints need to do in games like the one tomorrow.
I really hope Redmond starts the game and can play a massive part in leading Saints to a crucial victory.
Alex McCarthy
Alex McCarthy has been another player who has been in fine form recently.
Some fantastic saves in Southampton’s last few games against Everton and Bournemouth, just to name a few, have kept us in games and another big performance from the Englishman is needed at the Liberty Stadium, where no doubt he will be a key part of the side.
Wesley Hoedt
With Maya Yoshida suspended after being sent off on Sunday, Wesley Hoedt is going to have to step up and put in a huge performance at the back.
The Dutchman has been a bit underwhelming recently, putting in some slightly dodgy displays, but he is going to be a big part of tomorrow’s clash and will need to put in his best performance in Southampton colours.
