Predicted 4-4-2 Southampton XI to face Manchester City in the Premier League
Southampton had as many as 22 shots in their last outing against Newcastle United but the Saints weren’t able to break the deadlock and settled for another unimpressive draw.
Mark Hughes’ men have struggled to find the net this term in the Premier League and they will have another tough battle in their hands when they make the trip to the Etihad to face table-toppers Manchester City.
The Citizens are yet to be beaten in the Premier League this term and the Saints will have to pull the rabbit out of the hat to upset the odds, which are very much in favour of Pep Guardiola’s men.
Team News
Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg was suffering from an illness but he has trained with the squad for the last couple of days and will be expected to start on Sunday. Charlie Austin also had a shoulder niggle but should be fit enough to feature in the starting eleven.
Formation: 4-4-2
Manager: Mark Hughes
Predicted XI
Alex McCarthy (GK)
He has been one of standout performer for the Saints this season, making some key saves to keep his team in the game and always a reliable presence between the sticks.
Cedric Soares (RB)
The Portuguese international has been pretty consistent at the back and has contributed to the attack occasionally.
Jack Stephens (CB)
He was the pick of the backline in the last game against Newcastle but will be up against it when the Saints face a potent attacking unit on Sunday.
Wesley Hoedt (CB)
He has been really solid and consistent at the back for the Saints this season, playing every minute of their Premier League campaign and his aerial prowess might play a key role in keeping the attackers at bay.
Ryan Bertrand (LB)
The former Chelsea man must contribute to both the defence and the attack on Sunday.
James Ward-Prowse (RM)
Mohamed Elyounoussi has looked horribly out of form this season and Hughes should hand the Englishman a start.
Mario Lemina (RCM)
The Gabonese international has been a key figure in Southampton’s midfield and his tackling and interception will hold great importance against a City midfield that is endowed with loads of creative players.
Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg (LCM)
He has been the brightest spark of Southampton’s lacklustre season so far and must step up his game if the Saints are to come away with a positive result.
Nathan Redmond (LM)
He has been inconsistent and will need to improve significantly if he is to keep his place in the team for the upcoming games.
Danny Ings (ST)
He has misfired more than he has scored but he should aim to try and deliver the goods on Sunday.
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Shane Long (ST)
Charlie Austin wasn’t impressive in the last game and Hughes should opt to rotate his players.
