Puel calls for push as Southampton looks to catch West Brom

Claude Puel and his Southampton troops look to take on an important fixture this upcoming Saturday. West Brom has been in good form for most of this season at home, and Puel knows a good result is necessary if they are wanting to catch them.

The Saints gaffer has challenged the Saints to pull out all three points to stay pace with West Brom. This result will assist losing ground in the fight to finish in the top-eight in the Premier League this season.

LONDON, ENGLAND – MARCH 19: Claude Puel, Manager of Southampton shows appreciation to the fans after the Premier League match between Tottenham Hotspur and Southampton at White Hart Lane on March 19, 2017 in London, England. (Photo by Warren Little/Getty Images) /

Currently in ninth-place, the Saints are one spot and seven points behind the eighth-place Baggies, who also hold two games in hand over the West Brom side.

Southampton is looking to build off their previous win against Crygstal Palace, and manager Claude Puel had a say at the most recent press conference.

“The win against Crystal Palace was very important in terms of the result because many teams behind us also took points.” Stated Puel.

“It will be important to take points at West Brom, or one point minimum for our ambitions for the end of the season,”

“I was happy yesterday because with all those scenarios the team kept a good spirit and kept going always, and in difficulties they gave a good answer.”

“It will be the same against West Brom and with the schedule afterwards too.”

The manager also discussed the hardships in preparing for the game without the knowledge regarding injuries to players such as Manolo Gabbiadini, Ryan Bertrand, and Sofiane Boufal.

LONDON, ENGLAND – MARCH 19: An injured Manolo Gabbiadini of Southampton sits on the pitch during the Premier League match between Tottenham Hotspur and Southampton at White Hart Lane on March 19, 2017 in London, England. (Photo by Catherine Ivill – AMA/Getty Images) /

“And I don’t know for example if Gabbiadini can participate with the squad for this game. It’s difficult for the moment to prepare this game. With Bertrand, Davis and Boufal, all these players I don’t know about for the moment.”

One of the more disappointing news of the press conference was discussing Oriol Romeu, who has been the rock for this team all season. Oriol Romeu has been suspended for the next two fixtures due to collecting his 10^th booking against Palace.

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