Saints will introduce a host of new faces to the St Marys crowd for the first time tonight. The team will be looking to put the disappointment of Paul Peschisolido’s last minute equaliser behind them.
Coventry City will also be looking to continue their winning streak which extends to the back end of last season. With several new faces in the side and the ever dangerous Gary McSheffery Coventry will certainly be no pushovers tonight.
Vital Quotes:
‘I’ve obviously had a look at the tape of their game with Derby and they didn’t play particularly well in the first half, but second half they really showed their quality. They’ve got goals all around the team and I think that’s one thing George has bought so it’s going to be a difficult game for us.’ Mickey Adams speaking to Sky Blues World.
Southampton Team News:
Saints will be without influencial skipper Claus Lundekvam for tonights’ game after it was revealed that he could in fact be out until the end of September will ankle ligament damage. The news will come as a blow to fans who had previously been told he could be back in contention for the visit of West Brom on Saturday. Alex Ostlund or Martin Cranie look set to take Lundekvam’s place.
Striker Ricardo Fuller will also miss the game tonight will a hamstring strain so Bradley Wright-Phillips should start.
Player to watch: Bradley Wright-Phillips
Changed the game on Sunday will his pace and skill. He scored a terrific goal and was unlucky not to add to his tally. He should prove to be a handful for the Coventry defence tonight.
Coventry City Team News:
Colin Cameron could make his debut after serving out a one match suspension. New loan signing Adam Virgo could be included in the squad.
Player to watch: Stern John
Scored a wonderful goal on Saturday against Sunderland. He should cause an inexperienced Southampton defence some problems with his strength, could have the same impact that Steven Howard had for Derby on Sunday.
Match Facts & Stats
Last Season’s Results:
Coventry City 1-1 Southampton
Southampton 1-1 Coventry City
Match Prediction:
Saints must secure their first three points of the season tonight. The second half performance against Derby showed what they are capable of, but it wont be easy against a confident Coventry team.
Prediction: Saints to win 3-1
Next Fixtures:
12/08/06 – Southampton Vs West Bromwich Albion
