Southampton will be looking to record back-to-back Premier League victories when they welcome South Coast neighbours Bournemouth to St Mary’s on Friday evening.
After last weekend’s 1-0 win over Sheffield United, Ralph Hasenhuttl’s side are in good shape, with three wins coming from their last four games in all competitions.
Bournemouth sit one place above Saints in the top flight, despite the pair having equal points and goal difference.
Eddie Howe’s men come into this one off the back of a 3-1 home win over Everton, which gave them their second victory of the season.
However, the Cherries have plenty of noticeable absentees which could hinder their chances, with the likes of David Brooks and Charlie Daniels missing out through injury.
With Moussa Djenepo sidelined for Saints, too, both teams are without a fully fit squad, but can still field some quality players in all areas.
I have taken a look at the key battles ahead of Southampton’s meeting with Bournemouth and predicted where the game could be won or lost.
