Southampton’s season has gotten off to a dream start under new manager Ronald Koeman, but they’ve finally hit the part of their schedule where they come up against some real tests. They host Manchester City on Sunday, and it’s the first of three consecutive games against sides that were favored to finish in the top four this season.
Southampton vs. Manchester City live stream: Time, TV schedule and how to watch the EPL online
Ronald Koeman’s side have a chance to prove they’re a real top four contender.
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Despite their spectacular early season form, Southampton are coming off a disappointing 0-0 draw against Aston Villa. Though that game finished 1-1, Villa had a number of chances that they failed to take and very easily could have come up with an upset win.
City, meanwhile, have done well to bounce back from some nightmare performances in Europe and a loss to West Ham United. They’re undefeated in their last four in all competitions, though their recent draw against Queens Park Rangers certainly isn’t flattering. There’s no reason for Southampton to believe that they can’t get a point on Sunday.
Key player - Victor Wanyama (Southampton)
Even though Southampton are at home and have players who can keep the ball very well, chances are City are going to have a bit more possession in attacking areas and put the Saints under threat, both through sustained pressure and counter attacks. In both instances, the man who will be most responsible for breaking up play and distributing to Southampton’s playmakers is Wanyama. Even with David Silva out and Yaya Toure in average form, he has a tough job ahead of him.
Key matchup - Graziano Pelle vs. City’s defenders
Pelle has been one of the Premier League’s big surprise stars this season, but he’s on a bit of a cold streak. He hasn’t scored in the league since his two-goal outing against Sunderland on October 18, and he’s gone three games in all competitions without a goal for Southampton. Vincent Kompany and whoever partners him in defense certainly have the quality to keep Pelle quiet, but the 6’4” Italian could spring up with a big header at any time.
Southampton injuries and suspensions
Out: James Ward-Prowse (ankle), Sam Gallagher (knee), Jay Rodriguez (knee). In doubt: Steven Davis (hamstring).
Manchester City injuries and suspensions
Out: Edin Dzeko (calf), Aleksandar Kolarov (calf), David Silva (knee)
City are getting close to full fitness and should have all of their absentees back before the busy holiday period, but all of Dzeko, Kolarov and Silva will miss out on this occasion. Southampton are hoping to get their two youngsters back before Christmas, while Rodriguez should return sometime in January.
Match Date/Time: Saturday, 1:30 p.m. local, 8:30 a.m. ET
Venue: St. Mary’s Stadium, Southampton, England
TV: NBCSN (U.S.), TSN3 (Canada), Sky Sports 1 (U.K.)
Online: NBC Sports Live Extra (U.S.), TSN online (Canada), Sky Go (U.K.)
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