Southampton kept aside their defensive shortcomings against Arsenal and Leicester City to give a much improved performance against Manchester City. Although the Saints faced their eighth league defeat, Russell Martin's side managed to keep a decent goal-difference as they conceded only once against the defending Premier League Champions.
Now, Southampton will play Stoke City in the Carabao Cup third round, which is an important match to take some much-needed momentum boost for the next league fixture against Everton at the St. Mary's Stadium. A few lineup changes are expected from manager Russell Martin, and on that note, here is the expected Southampton starting lineup to take a massive win over Stoke City.
Southampton's expected lineup to take a massive Carabao Cup win over Stoke City
Goalkeeper
In the second round of the Carabao Cup, experienced goalkeeper Alex McCarthy gave a masterclass performance as he made two huge saves in the second half to keep the score at 1-1. Later, McCarthy saved Ashley Young's penalty to guide the Saints to a thrilling 6-5 win over Everton on penalties in the third round.
Aaron Ramsdale recently gave a brilliant performance against Manchester City despite a 1-0 away defeat, and thus, is expected to be given a rest in this match. Moreover, if McCarthy gives another world-class goalkeeping display in this match, the 34-year-old could get some playing time in the must-win games against Everton and Wolves.