Sunderland take on Southampton today at St Mary’s. The Black Cats are yet to pick up a Premier League point, but did record their first win of the season against Shrewsbury on Wednesday.
David Moyes will hand a first league start of the season to Jordan Pickford following Vito Mannone’s injury, whilst new signing Javier Manquillo is also likely to start following a string of poor performances from Donald Love.
Mannone joins Seb Larsson, Lee Cattermole and Jan Kirchhoff on the long term injury table, whilst John O’Shea, Fabio Borini, Lamine Kone, Jeremain Lens and Steven Pienaar will all be assessed before the game.
In the last five games against the Saints, the Black Cats have two wins, one draw and two losses in all competitions – but one of the losses was the 8-0 hammering at this ground two years ago, which I’m sure we all remember fondly…
I spoke to Read Southampton editor Luke Osman (@LukeOsmanRS) for a chat about today’s opponents, and here is what Luke had to say.
1) How have you rated Southampton’s summer business?
Pretty good. We’re on the verge of signing Sofiane Boufal for a whopping £21m and that’ll replace the star quality that was left vacant by Sadio Mane’s departure. We’ve strengthened the squad well in depth and have made some great, future thinking signings. I’m happy.
2) Are you happy with Claude Puel?
Yeah, for sure. He may not be the most glamourous name we could have gone for but he’s got a nice footballing philosophy, encourages the progression of youth and is passionate about his job. I like him a lot.
3) What are your hopes for the season ahead?
I’d like a top half finish and a cup run. Whether that be in the Europa League, the FA Cup or the EFL Cup – I’d love to see Saints go on a cup run.
4) Which Sunderland player worries you the most?
Jermain Defoe, for sure. He always pops up with important goals and we’ll have to be wary of his movement and prolific ways.
5) What’s gone wrong so far this season for Southampton?
We’re just still adjusting. We’ve played some nice football and we look in pretty good shape, the goals just need to flow. I think that we’ve lacked game-changers and that’s been clear to see. However, signing Boufal will rectify that and I’m certain that the goals will flow sooner rather than later.
6) Where do you think Sunderland will finish this season?
I see you guys struggling, honestly. I thought, to start with, things would be good for you but I feel as though the injuries will be damaging and seeing Younes Kaboul leave is quite a blow. Don’t think you’ve added enough quality, either. 17th or 18th, for me.
7) What’s your score prediction?
4-0 to Saints. Think a big win is long overdue for us and we’ll exploit the defensive frailties.
