It’s a repeat of the weekend FA Cup fixture as Southampton square off against Arsenal but this time in the Premier League. Southampton have been in good touch of late and have bagged 3 wins from the last 5 games.
Arsenal have also enjoyed a similar run of form with 3 wins from 5 games, losing just one. This could be a cagey affair and Southampton would be wise to not keep basking in their FA Cup triumph.
There are quite a few injuries for Ralph Hasenhuttl to deal with. Jannik Vestergaard, Moussa Djenepo, Mohammed Salisu, Nathan Redmond and Oriol Romeu all remain out with injuries. Kyle Walker-Peters is out with a quadriceps injury while Ryan Bertrand is set to serve a one-match ban.
Not a lot of changes can be expected from the last outing with so many injuries.
Has been the first choice for the side and returns after being rested for the last game.
With Walker-Peters ruled out, Valery should take his place on the right.
Bednarek has been a regular fixture of the backline and continues in his role.
With Vestergaard out, Stephens has deputised well in the last few games.
Jake Vokins should start at left-back in the absence of Bertrand. The FA Cup win vs Shrewsbury remains his only outing of the season so far and this would be a good outing for the youngster.
Not the best of games for Armstrong but will likely continue in his position.
The captain is a maestro with his set pieces and once again showed that by almost scoring directly from a corner.
In the absence of Romeu, new recruit Diallo has impressed in the chances he has been afforded.
The former Arsenal man will again be hoping to cause some damage to his former side.
Another player whose future has been up for debate, Ings still remains the side’s chief goal threat.
May not be as influential as Ings but his work rate cannot be faulted.