Southampton preview with Simon Peach, Press Association

Simon Peach may follow Manchester United and England in his role as Chief Football Writer at the Press Association, but his footballing loyalties remain at St Mary's. Here is his inside track on Southampton ahead of Saturday's Premier League clash in our latest 'Preview from the Press Box'.

Form

Simon: “Ralph Hasenhuttl made an immediate impact when he first came in (December) and he was shortlisted for the Premier League Manager of the Month in January for a reason – Saints were unbeaten in January. However, the Cardiff defeat on 2 February - the second time Southampton lost to Cardiff this season (the other was 8 December) - in the last minute having already equalised, was a real gut-punch. But they rallied, the 2-0 win against Fulham (27 February) was crucial and the performance against United last time out, even though they lost 3-2, the way they dug in and fought means they should face Tottenham with confidence.”

Key player

Simon: “From a Southampton perspective, James Ward-Prowse has been reborn under Ralph Hasenhuttl. He’s always been technically able, but he’s added bite and aggression to his game. He’s been superb and I believe he should be back in the England squad announced next week. Southampton have good central midfield options and that’s probably the strongest part of the team. Harry Kane always seems to score against Southampton. He’s an obvious threat. Southampton’s defence has improved under Hasenhuttl but they still ship goals. In terms of key players, absentees include Michael Obafemi and Danny Ings, so attacking options are limited.”

Key area

Simon: “I think Southampton can match Tottenham in the midfield battle but this will be a tale of two defences. If Southampton can find a way of staying organised and shutting Tottenham out, it would be a surprise. On the other hand, I feel Tottenham can shut out Southampton, especially with the lack of options Southampton have in attack at the moment. That’s a cause for concern. Yan Valery and James Ward-Prowse’s goals at Old Trafford were superb but out of nowhere, not built-up goals. Saints are struggling to find a way through and that’s why I think both defences come into it.”

Prediction

Simon: “I’m expecting a Tottenham win because that always seems to be the case in recent years. I can’t remember the last time Southampton beat Tottenham at St Mary’s (2005) and the last couple of trips to Wembley (3-1, 5-2 Spurs wins) have been pretty painful as well from a Southampton perspective. So it’s hard to look beyond Tottenham.”