Sky Sports pundit Charlie Nicholas believes Southampton will fall to a third consecutive Premier League defeat against Aston Villa on Saturday.
Saints head into the match on the back of losses to Newcastle United and West Ham United, with Ralph Hasenhuttl’s men currently sat in the relegation zone.
Villa, though, have lost their three most-recent Premier League outings, and find themselves above Southampton in 17th only on goal difference.
It’s set to be a close affair between two struggling sides, but Nicholas reckons the hosts will secure a 2-1 win against Southampton.
Writing for Sky Sports, he said:
Southampton are too predictable and are relying on Danny Ings too much. Nathan Redmond has the pace and will give them something but not enough, and the wing-backs [are] not strong enough.
At the back, they are a bag of nerves and their goalkeeping situation is a difficult one too.
Read Southampton’s verdict
Villa are probably slight favourites for this one, and it wouldn’t be a huge shock if they do come away with a much-needed win.
Saints have looked rather ropey in midfield of late, and therein lie the greatest qualities of Dean Smith’s squad.
The likes of Jack Grealish and John McGinn will fancy their chances of pulling the strings against Southampton, and it could prove to be a game that is decided by the battle in the middle of the park.
Ralph Hasenhuttl will know, however, that a win for his team is essential. If Saints lose, they will be three points adrift and anchored down by a terrible goal difference…
