Apart from the fact that all of the final round of games are being played on a Sunday, and at the ridiculous time of 4pm, very little needs to be settled.
For both Saints and Stoke safety has been reached thanks to the defeat suffered by Wigan at the Emirates. The sole purpose now is to see whether we can gain a place or two in the final standings.
Earlier this season Saints threw away a healthy lead at Stoke and were held 3-3 after a late burst from the hosts. A slightly disappointing result but one that may give us hope for the return.
Since then we have changed slightly with us now playing higher up the pitch in a more energetic pressing style.
The style seems effective but of late we seem to have forgotten how to score.
With safety now assured it is possible that the high scoring run in recent matches between both clubs could continue, and Saints could end on a high.
Vital Quotes:
Saints Team News:
Ramirez and Fox are both out serving their final match of suspension. Rickie Lambert and Luke Shaw are doubts also.
Player to watch: Jay Rodriguez
Jay could be the man who has the main task of leading the front line and taking us to the win.
Stoke Team News:
Charlie Adam is suspended. Glenn Whelan is a doubt after struggling for match fitness in recent weeks, while Andy Wilkinson featured as a substitute against Spurs after a recent back problem.
Player to watch: Cameron Jerome
Jerome scored with a last minute super strike at home to us and will again be someone to keep an eye on.
Match Facts & Stats
Saints have won 6 out of the last 7 times that Stoke have visited.
In our last three games with Stoke we have seen a total of 16 goals scored.
Stoke have had an average of 2 yellow cards per game with a total to date this season of 76. They also lead the way with fouls conceded with 478.
Ref Watch:
Lee Probert referees our game with
G. Beswick and A. Garratt assisting
Stuart Attwell is his fourth official.
Match Prediction:
This is the sort of game where either side could fail to turn up ready to play. Both sides are on a poor run but I am hoping for a spirited finale and go Saints 3-1.
