Saints will be looking to avoid an upset at home to League 1 team Yeovil Town tonight after watching many Championship teams fall victim to shock exits to lower league opposition.
Manager George Burley has a difficult decision to make regarding his team selection, due to injuries to several players such as Bartosz Bialkowski, Michael Svensson, Claus Lundekvam, Gareth Bale, Mario Licka, Ricardo Fuller and Darren Powell. Burley may now be forced to use some of his first team or rely on blooding some of our promising youngsters.
Tonight sees the return to St Marys of former Saints youth player Aarron Davies, he was released by Saints a few years ago and now has the opportunity to face some of his friends at the academy for example Andrew Surman.
Vital Quotes:
‘I will have to look at it carefully because
e can’t afford any more injuries. The squad is not big enough.’ George Burley speaking to www.saintsfc.co.uk
Southampton Team News:
Saints will be missing the injured Michael Svensson, Claus Lundekvam, Gareth Bale, Darren Powell, Mario Licka, Bartosz Bialkowski and Ricardo Fuller.
Youngster Adam Lallana could make his first appearance for Saints after being an unused substitute away against Barnsley on Saturday.
Chris Makin also looks set to make his first appearance for Saints in place of the injured Gareth Bale at left back.
Kenwyne Jones will start up front alongside Gregorz Rasiak, Bradley Wright-Phillips could be rested.
Martin Cranie and Kevin Miller could also start.
Player to watch: Adam Lallana
Looks to be an impressive prospect at youth level, he stands out in games for the academy the way Theo Walcott, Nathan Dyer and David McGoldrick had. He recently turned in an excellent performace for an England youth game at Dean Court.
Yeovil Town Team News:
Mark Lynch will be in the squad after agreeing a loan move from Hull City.
Kevin James, a loanee midfielder from Nottingham Forest could play but is awaiting permission from his former club.
Player to watch: Aaron Davies
Looks to be a pacy player, he can play in midfield or up front, when playing in midfield he is also able to chip in and score goals. He should provide a threat to a mismatch defence tonight.
Match Facts & Stats
Vital Southampton take a look at some recent shocks that Saints will be looking to avoid tonight.
Tranmere Rovers 4-3 Saints
After being 3-0 up at half time Saints fans at Prenton Park were looking forward to an easy passage into the next round of the FA Cup. John Aldridge’s side came storming back to score 4 goals in the last 20 minutes to achieve a historic Cup shock.
Mansfield Town 1-0 Saints
A demoralising display for Saints youngsters after they came unstuck at Field Mill
Watford 5-2 Saints
At the time Watford were struggling in Division 1 as Saints were in the Premiership, a woeful performance resulted in a an embarrassing defeat.
Match Prediction:
Saints to ensure a safe passage into the next round 3-1.
Next Fixtures:
26/08/06 – Southampton Vs Preston North End
