Mauricio Pellegrino would like to keep things straight when Southampton take on a hapless Crystal Palace. The Saints haven’t been able to kick start their campaign but will be looking forward to making merry when they visit Selhurst Park this weekend.
Claude Puel was given the sack after their lacklustre show last season and the Saints roped in Pellegrino to better their chances this season. Under Puel’s tenure, there had been a stagnancy at the St Mary’s as the gaffer used to rotate his squad very often.
But this season it’s a bit different as we can see that the Saints are a completely different side altogether. There has been an intent, determination and solidity in the team and all they need is an able finisher who can put the final nail in the coffin.
Scoring goals has been a problem for them and Pellegrino needs to address this concern. He has a similar squad to what Puel used last season and it remains to be seen how he uses the squad this season.
Predicted 4-2-3-1 Southampton Starting Lineup Against Crystal Palace
Defence
Fraser Forster will be at the heart of the Saints goal. The gigantic shot stopper will be tough to beat on his days.
Looking at the physical context of the game Maya Yoshida should come into the starting lineup replacing Jack Stephens. Palace will come into the game with a lot more power and Yoshida should be in the backline to soak up the pressure.
Newcomer Wesley Hoedt will be his partner in the backline. Cedric Soares will try to hit hard from the right side while Ryan Bertrand will begin from where he left.
Midfield
The main battle lies in the midfield. The pair of Oriol Romeu and Mario Lemina was pretty good against Huddersfield Town and given the importance of this match, they should start yet again. Pellegrino will be needing bodies to man the midfield and they have the physical prowess to deal with it.
Attack
We might see some changes in the attacking front. Dusan Tadic didn’t start the last match but is expected to get a start this weekend. On any given day, he is the best bet for the Saints and he will be given the right flank.
Nathan Redmond hasn’t fired yet but will have another chance on the left flank. Sofiane Boufal will have his presence in the number. 10 position.
Manolo Gabbiadini has to press the accelerator pedal to give his side a much-needed uplift. Here is how they might line up:
