Mark Wotte’s men host Swansea City in an afternoon clash at St. Mary’s. The Saints are on the back of a confidence boosting draw at Carrow Road on Tuesday night, thanks to goals from Kayne McLaggon and Marek Saganowski.
Mark Wotte will be looking to start his new era at St. Mary’s with a win, however the Saints face strong opposition in tomorrow’s affair.
The Swans are the surprise package of this year`s season, being only just two points off the play offs. Manager Roberto Martinez will be looking to continue their fine season with three points in Hampshire tomorrow.
Vital Quotes: Mark Wotte on Swansea:
‘We will see what we do against Swansea,’ he said. ‘It’s good to have more options and we will try to find the best eleven and the best shape. Swansea are on a run. They had a great result last week, and we respect them but we are not afraid of them.
‘Roberto Martinez is doing a good job and obviously the results speak for themselves, but I don’t want to pay too much attention to other people and other clubs. We have to focus on ourselves and we will attack them.
‘We will take things from match to match and our only goal is to keep Southampton in the Championship.’
Southampton Team News:
Saints welcome back Andrew Surman and Martin Paterson after the pair have finished their suspensions.
Midfielder Lee Holmes (knee) will be out after coming off at Carrow Road, while Morgan Schneiderlin (ankle) is in contention to start.
Player to watch: Marek Saganowski
With two games in two, the Polish international will be out to give the Saints faithful three points and to steer them away from the relegation zone.
Swansea City Team News:
Midfielder Darren Pratley is out for up to ten weeks, while Joe Allen and Tom Butler could start for the Swans.
Player to watch: Jason Scotland
With 13 league goals this season, the powerful striker will be looking to carry the Swans into the play off positions tomorrow.
Match Facts & Stats
Both sides have met 57 times in the league, with the Saints winning 27 times in comparison to Swansea’s 18.
Ref Watch:
Mr. Steve Tanner (Somerset)
Match Prediction:
Saints 2-1 Swansea. Mark Wotte to start his home record with a win.
Next Fixtures:
Sheffield United (H) Tuesday 3rd February.
