Ronald Koeman will be up against his former club Southampton on Saturday for the first time with his new side Everton. The Dutch gaffer had played a key role in the Saints’ rise to prominence in the past couple of years before leaving for the hot-seat at Goodison Park in the summer. He gave the Saints their ticket to Europa League for the first time in the club’s history.
Even though the former Feyenoord boss left for Everton in summer, most of the Southampton fans will be ever grateful to the 53-year-old. The Dutchman’s stint at Everton started pretty well but in recent weeks, the Toffees have flattered to deceive.
Both teams will be desperate for a win when they take on each other this Sunday. Here are three key battles which could decide the outcome of the game.
Charlie Austin Vs Ashley Williams
Austin has scored eight goals in all competitions from 16 games this season but his form has dried up of late. The Englishman has scored just once in his last seven games and needs to find his scoring boots really soon. The likes of Shane Long and Jay Rodriguez have failed to impress this campaign and, therefore, there will more expectations from Austin.
Everton have not been defensively solid this season despite signing Welsh defensive rock Ashley Williams. He has been ever-present in their back four but has failed to impress of late. Koeman is usually spot on with his transfers but Williams needs to click soon or risk bearing the tag of a transfer flop. The clash against Austin will be important as he’ll have to track the striker’s good runs.
