George Burley has promised a performance against struggling Leeds tomorrow in a final bid to resurrect hopes of a top-6 finish. Leeds will also be desperate for three points as the Yorkshire club currently lie third from bottom after last weekend’s defeat to Colchester.
Saints will step out onto the pitch to a Wall of Sound: a montage of ten anthems, voted for by fans in an effort to get the crowd going. While not in the same league as Delia Smith, it is hoped that this will inspire all four sides of the stadium to act as the 12th man in what should be a near sell-out crowd.
If Saints lose and other results go against them, it will rule out any remaining hope of a play-off place. With each team playing for different reasons and the unpredictable nature of this season’s Championship, St. Mary’s could be seeing one of the games of the season if the 10 goals in the last two meetings between the sides are anything to go by.
Vital Quotes:
George Burley – ‘We’ve got three games left and we need to pick up nine points, so it’s a massive game for us.’
Southampton Team News:
In-form striker Marek Saganowski looks set to miss the run-in with a groin tear, so Gzregorz Rasiak and Kenwyne Jones could start together for the first time in months. Gareth bale is also unavailable with a torn calf muscle while Alexander Ostlund and Claus Lundekvam face late fitness tests. Nathan Dyer is ill but Inigo Idiakez returns to the squad after his loan spell with QPR.
Player to watch: Home Player:
Gzregorz Rasiak – the striker will be keen to show Burley and the fans that he is up for the job after being dropped, despite scoring 20 goals this season.
Leeds United Team News:
Captain Jonathan Douglas is suspended while Alan Thompson is 50-50 with a hamstring strain.
Player to watch: Away Player:
David Healy – The Northern Ireland international has 10 league goals to his name and could be the inspiration to keep Leeds up.
Match Facts & Stats
PREVIOUS MEETINGS
18/10/05: Saints 1-2 Leeds
19/11/05: Saints 3-4 Leeds
18/11/06: Saints 3-0 Leeds
Next Fixtures:
28/4/07: Norwich City (away)
06/5/07: Southend United (home)
