Southampton host Arsenal for the second time in a matter of just four days tonight, with the Saints aiming to repeat the success they enjoyed against the Gunners in the FA Cup fourth round on Saturday.
Ralph Hasenhuttl named a strong side for the visit of Arsenal in the FA Cup and the Saints were able to take advantage of the Gunners making a few changes to their line-up as a result. In the end, an own goal from Gabriel was enough for Southampton to claim a 1-0 win and saw them eliminate the holders of the trophy.
The Saints are having to contend with multiple issues on the injury front, although Hasenhuttl has provided more positive news on the fitness of Jannik Vestergaard, who is now set to return earlier than expected although he is still sidelined for the time being.
The game against Arsenal represents a chance for the Saints to get back to winning ways in the Premier League after back-to-back wins in the FA Cup followed the 2-0 loss at Leicester City. The defeat against the Foxes saw them drop down to mid-table and leaves them needing to get back on track to continue their push for the European places.
It will be interesting to see how the starting line-up changes when Southampton get some of their injured players back to full fitness, but for now Hasenhuttl is limited somewhat in terms of his selection. However, the Saints should be able to name another strong side for the return visit of the Gunners, with just the three changes expected from Saturday’s line-up.
