Second placed team versus the third means that there is a huge amount at stake in this game.
For a start the winners will be second in the league at worst and if Saints can win and West Ham lose Saints will regain top spot.
Saints form of late to be kind has been patchy. Many injuries and the loss of Rickie Lambert through suspension hasn’t helped.
Cardiff had to fight hard but managed to beat a determined Crystal Palace to make it to the Carling Cup Final.
Earlier this season we lost by the odd goal at Cardiff and will be hoping to reverse the 2-1 score-line at the very least.
Cardiff look like a strongly built unit and Saints cannot afford another poor display if they are to gain the required result.
Vital Quotes:
Southampton Team News:
Rickie Lambert coming back is a good boost. Our defence needs bolstering so hopefully Fonte can make a return or maybe Jaidi will play to counter the strong front-men of Cardiff.
Player to watch: Aaron Martin
With doubts about our defence Aaron will again be asked to perform heroics against City.
Cardiff Team News:
Manager Malky Mackay has a full squad available to him with skipper Hudson back to fitness.
Player to watch: Peter Whittingham
This is one of the players that makes Cardiff tick and he can score good goals as well as make them.
Match Facts & Stats
Overall the Saints have a good record against Cardiff winning 12, drawing 7 and losing 3.
Ref Watch:
MARK HAYWOOD officiates
Mark Scholes and Alexandra Ihringova assist
Fourth Official is Craig Hicks
Match Prediction:
Saints to edge it 2-1
