Saints will be looking to continue their good start to the season at home to West Brom on Saturday. The match represents an early six pointer for promotion with both the Baggies and Saints much fancied for promotion.
The match also sees the return of Nigel Quashie to St Marys who quit the club in January to play in the Premiership only to see himself relegated for the second time in two seasons, this time at the hand of old club Portsmouth. The Baggies also boast ex Saints loanee Richard Chaplow in their ranks.
Vital Quotes:
‘In this league they’re all tough, and there
aren’t many easy games. Most teams in the Championship are quite similar on paper, and the bookmakers are tipping West Brom toachieve promotion. A lot of people would have to agree with that.’ George Burley speaking to www.saintsfc.co.uk
‘You look at Cardiff and Southampton’s squads and you think they’re going to be up there challenging.’
Bryan Robson speaking to the West Brom official site.
Southampton Team News:
Wonderkid Gareth Bale and new center back Pele both face late fitness tests due to thigh injuries. Kyle Critchell and Martin Cranie have been drafted into the squad should the pair not make it.
Mario Licka also looks as if he will miss out.
Player to watch: Djamel Belmadi
The former Algerian player of the year has been in good form over the first two games of the season. He played very well in Wednesday night’s game with Coventry. His trickery should provide a stern test for the West Brom defence.
West Brom Team News:
Goalkeeper Tomasz Kuszczak has left for Manchester United so Pascal Zuberbuhler should continue in goal with new signing Luke Steele on the bench.
Nathan Ellington is out with a hamstring strain and Dio Kamara has a broken foot.
Player to watch: Zoltan Gera
An excellent right winger who was once looked at by Chelsea. He has been the subject of many offers from Premiership clubs throughout the summer and WBA have done well to keep him so far. He will provide service for Albion’s strike force and is a potent goal threat himself.
Match Facts & Stats
In 32 matches between the sides when Saints have been at home the Baggies have lost 18 and drawn 11.
The most recent match between the two was two years ago in the Premiership, it finished 2-2.
Match Prediction:
I think that Saints will keep up their good start but it wont be easy…2-1 Saints.
Next Fixtures:
20-08-06 Barnsley Vs Saints
