Saints draw Stoke City in the fourth round of the Carabao Cup

Despite their struggles in the Premier League, Southampton have enjoyed a great start to their Carabao Cup campaign this season. The Saints have advanced to the fourth round in the Carabao Cup which is a great progress as compared to last season, where they were eliminated by League Two side Gillingham in the first round itself. Robbie McKenzie scored a second half brace for Gillingham to register a massive 3-1 win over Southampton at the beginning of the last season. 

However, the Saints have been a much improved side since then as they achieved promotion to the Premier League, winning 1-0 against Leeds United in the Championship playoffs final. Further, Russell Martin's side took a thrilling 5-3 win over Championship side Cardiff City in the second round and followed it with a win over Everton on penalties to progress to the fourth round. Now, the Saints will again play a Championship side in the Carabao Cup, with a huge chance to advance to the fifth round in the home fixture. 

Saints draw Stoke City in the fourth round of the Carabao Cup

Russell Martin's side have drawn Championship side Stoke City in the fourth round, which will be played at the St. Mary's Stadium next month. Last season, Southampton took a 1-0 win over Stoke City in the away fixture with former midfielder Stuart Armstrong scoring the only goal of the match. However, Stoke City took a 1-0 win at the St. Mary's Stadium towards the end of the league season with new Sheffield United signing, Tyrese Campbell finding the back of the net for Narcis Pelach's side. 

While Southampton have taken one draw in the Premier League after five matches, Stoke City have managed two wins and five defeats in seven games in the Championship. Thus, Southampton will need to start the match on a high note and aim to secure a convincing win to progress further in the Carabao Cup. Meanwhile, Russell Martin's side will face Bournemouth in an away fixture in the Premier League and it remains to be seen whether the Saints can take their first win of the league season.