With Manchester City on a four-game winless run, the Sky Blues take on Southampton this Sunday. Haven’t seen much of the Saints or don’t really know much about their team? Fear not, we spoke to Read Southampton editor Luke Osman about what to expect from this weekend’s clash. Here’s what he had to say:
1. Please can you describe the feeling amongst Southampton fans after recent performance?
We’re all feeling pretty good. Our form as of late has been awesome and the game against Inter was just desperately unlucky, really. We’re not particularly confident heading into the game, given you guys’ quality, but we know we’ll get chances to score and we know that it’s going to be a really good game of football, with two very good teams going at it.
2. Teams have taken different approaches to battling Guardiola. Will Southampton sit back and absorb pressure or press high and force City into mistakes?
We’ll just play our normal game. Keep possession when we can, put the ball on the ground and try to find openings in behind. The midfield battle will be key but Pep is an unbelievable manager and regardless of our approach, he’ll give you the best possible chance of winning.
3. Puel confirmed that Long would be sidelined for match. Is he a big miss or will he be easily replaceable?
It’s a tricky one, that. Long offers something different; he’s tenacious and whilst he’s not great technically, his team ethic and ability to create chances will be missed. On the flip side, he’s been absolutely diabolical in front of goal this season. It’s a nice opportunity for Redmond, Austin, Rodriguez or possibly even Boufal.
4. Are there any other major injury concerns?
Cedric Soares and Matt Targett are doubts with respective ankle and hamstring injuries. Ryan Bertrand is out with a hamstring injury; that’s a massive loss to us. We’ll be playing our third choice left-back Sam McQueen, who’s quite impressive. Florin Gardos is still out with an unknown injury and Jeremy Pied is out for the season with ACL damage.
5. Which Manchester City are you most scared of?
All of them, haha! If I had to pick one, it’d be Kevin de Bruyne. I think he’s the best player in the league.
6. Finally, what’s your prediction for the match?
3-1 City. I’m not expecting anything less than a loss but I’m expecting us to score. I just want to see a good game and a brave, ambitious performance from our boys!
