Southampton seem to be going from strength to strength this season under new manager Claude Puel aftera shaky start to the campaign.

The Saints held Manchester City to a 1-1 draw at the weekend thanks to a strike from the in-form Nathan Redmond, which now means they are unbeaten in the Premier League since the 10th of September when they were bettered 2-1 by Arsenal.

In fact, they have only lost once since then in all competitions, the only defeat coming against Inter Milan last week in the Europa League.

Next up for Puel and Co. is Sunderland tomorrow night in the EFL Cup at St Mary's. The visitors' fortunes  of late have been the polar opposite of the home side, with the Black Cats yet to register a Premier League win and picking up a dismal two points so far.

Manager David Moyes has his work cut out as he tries to turn Sunderland's season around. But it might be a hurdle too high to beat solid Southampton, especially if the home side line up like this.

Goalkeeper

Arsenal v Southampton - Premier League

 

Fraser Forster is doing himself no harm in the race for the England number one jersey, conceding only 9 goals this season and keeping a huge six clean sheets already. How he was not considered the number one choice for England at the Euros is a question in itself, as his huge frame and brilliant agility make him as difficult to beat as anyone.

Back Four

Inter Milan v Southampton - UEFA Europa League Group Stage - Group K

 

Virgil Van Dijk and Jose Fonte are a mainstay in the team now, especially considering Maya Yoshida's troubles against Inter Milan last week in the 1-0 defeat. The aforementioned pair are making quite the formidable partnership together and can take a huge amount of credit for the Saints' excellent defensive record so far this season.

One of Southampton's stand-out performaners from their Italian away day was the incoming Sam McQueen, who was excellent in the absence of Ryan Bertrand and should be given the opportunity to shine again on Wednesday night. At right-back, the ever improving Cuco Martina starts.

Midfield

ORIOL ROMEU

 

Oriel Romeu is quickly becoming one of the first names on the Southampton team sheet, especially after his Man of the Match performance against Manchester City at the weekend as his tireless work ethic in the centre of the park made life difficult for the City's gifted midfield.

Alongside him comes Jordy Clasie who hasn't had as much game time as maybe he would have hoped this season yet impressed when given the opportunity.

Record signing Sofiane Boufal should be given his chance to shine having returned from injury. The Moroccan showed glimpses of his ability at the weekend but ultimately ran out of time in what was a cameo appearance.

Out wide is Nathan Redmond, who surely must be on the verge of an England call-up given his excellent form so far this season, and on the other flank James Rodriguez.

Once firm fan favourite, Rodriguez has struggled since his return from a lengthy lay-off, but 90 minutes will do him and his confidence the world of good.

Striker

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Shane Long is becoming an outcast at St Mary's as of late thanks to the impeccable form of Charlie Austin. The former QPR striker has really found his shooting boots under Claude Puel, having had a tough half-season after joining in the 2016 January window.

Austin is a constant threat in and around the box, and will more often than not find the back of the net when given half a yard. Sunderland's defenders will be wary.

Formation

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