Southampton: Build up to derby day versus Bournemouth

Southampton meets neighbourhood club AFC Bournemouth in a couple of days time, for what has become a crucial-six pointer at the Vitality Stadium.

Former Bournemouth player Ryan Bertrand could be set to make an appearance against his old club, while Cherries-man Jermain Defoe knows all about playing against Southampton in the Premier League.

AFC Bournemouth’s three-game unbeaten run, including two victories and one draw, came to an end on Wednesday night, when Burnley stole the headlines at Bournemouth’s home ground.

Cherries could have captured an equaliser late on, as Joshua King scored a 79th minute goal, but did not capitalise.

Manager Eddie Howe told the Bournemouth Echo his side did not ‘get going at any stage of the game’, and as a result, ‘was a tough one to take in terms of performance’.

Saints meanwhile suffered defeat at the hands of Manchester City, after they conceded a late stoppage time goal courtesy of Raheem Sterling, who has been at the forefront of late goals this season.

Despite being desperately unlucky not to come away with a single point against City, Southampton are able to draw faith from putting up a resilient performance against the league leaders, right up to the final minute.

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Saints boss Mauricio Pellegrino insisted he had been very proud of his team’s efforts at the Etihad Stadium, which follows an inspiring performance at home versus Everton.

Their versatility and spirit has uplifted supporters, coming into a game of high importance to the league standings. Approaching Christmas, Saints were in need of as many points as possible, and it is so far, so good for them.

AFC Bournemouth enters the enticing derby in equally strong form, which has set up the suspense for this clash magnificently.

Winning would place Southampton on track for a top half finish before Christmas, whilst Cherries could leapfrog Southampton with a win on their behalf.

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Very little separates teams positioned from ninth to fifteenth in terms of points. Southampton is 11th, whilst Cherries currently sit in 15th. However, should Southampton beat Bournemouth, then the home side may begin to look more nervously over their shoulders, to the relegation zone.

Considering Southampton are only two points ahead of Bournemouth at the time being, they are by no means out of trouble. A two game turnaround of back-to-back defeats could land Southampton in the relegation zone, potentially.

Neither team wants to lose this game, which paves well for the draw if you are a betting man.  Nevertheless, fans travelling to the Vitality Stadium on Sunday expect to win against their nearby rivals, boosting their stance in the league.