Stoke City vs. Southampton: Opposition threat

1 of 4

STOKE ON TRENT, ENGLAND – SEPTEMBER 23: Mark Hughes, Manager of Stoke City looks on during the Premier League match between Stoke City and Chelsea at Bet365 Stadium on September 23, 2017 in Stoke on Trent, England. (Photo by Richard Heathcote/Getty Images) /

Although Stoke may be experiencing an injury crisis, the Potters still have some incredible talent in their squad to hurt Southampton this weekend, but just who can make the difference on Saturday?

It has been a difficult start to the season for Stoke, who have won just one game so far in a tricky set of fixtures.

That win however did come against a strong Arsenal side, and Mark Hughes’ side could argue they have been unfortunate with results in the league.

Last week’s heavy defeat to Chelsea aside, and Stoke have been competitive in all their fixtures so far, and will see Southampton’s visit as an opportunity to really kick their season off.

Their attacking stars will have to be at their best this Saturday, but arguably it could be the makeshift defenders that Mark Hughes picks that have the most important job.

Here are three players that could prevent Southampton bouncing back from the defeat to Manchester United last weekend.