Both teams will be looking for a solid start to the season as they both have aspirations for promotion this season.
Vital Quotes:
Manager Poortvliet told the Daily Echo: ‘They have to go on and you have to believe in them. It’s up to them because at some time you have to start. Normally you start with two or three youngsters but we start with a lot because the situation is like that’ in reference to his desire to play a lot of the ‘youngsters’ in the opening fixture.
Cardiff City Team News:
A sell out at Ninian Park will be expecting a good start for last years FA Cup finalists. Ex Saints manager Dave Jones is confident of a good start with a full squad to choose from
Player to watch: Jay Bothroyd
New signing Jay Bothroyd will be out to prove a point to his new fans and is sure to test the return of Michael Svensson for Southampton
Southampton Team News:
Saints have no major injuries to worry about at the start of the season. The manager looks like he might start with a young side.
Player to watch: Drew Surman
Born and bred a Saint. Has the club in his veins and will pull the strings for Saints.
Match Facts & Stats
The last game at Ninian Park between the two sides was won by Cardiff – 1v0.
Next Fixtures:
Exeter v Saints (Carling Cup)
Tuesday 5th August 19:35 KO
