Next three games are huge

Southampton’s next three league games are vital in terms of gaining promotion to the Premier League.

The Saints currently sit second in the table, just two points behind leaders West Ham United.

Cardiff, who Nigel Adkins’ side drew 1-1 with on Tuesday, sit just one point behind the Saints.

But, Birmingham City, the in-form side of the Championship are in fourth place and are Southampton’s next opponents.

The Blues are scoring goals for fun, and have just beaten Leeds 4-1 at Elland Road to move just five points behind Saints with a game in hand.

So, if Birmingham were to defeat the Saints at St Andrews and win their game in hand – they would move above the south coast side – making Saturday’s game even more significant.

Adkins’ side then host Millwall in the FA Cup before entertaining Burnley at St Mary’s.

Southampton fans do not walk to St Mary’s with the same confidence as they did a couple of months ago – having only picked up one point out of the last potential nine at home.

After Burnley, the Saints travel to West Ham for what can only be described as Southampton’s biggest game of the season.

If things go well for the Saints in the next two league games it could be all to play for at Upton Park, and could potentially decide who gains promotion to the top flight.