Southampton FC vs Leeds United, Premier League 2022-2023, Today Match Prediction

Southampton FC vs Leeds United Match Prediction & Analysis

Southampton are currently bottom of the Premier League on goal difference, having been comfortably beaten by a strong Spurs team last weekend. 

They look short of players and, in truth, short of ideas. It could be a long season for the Saints, with manager Ralph Hasenhuttl one of the favourites to be the first to lose his job. 

They finished in 15th last season, and it’s hard to see how they’ll better that during this campaign.

Leeds scraped themselves out of a relegation battle last season, winning on the final day to clinch another season in the Premier League.

They’ll need to improve, and showed encouraging signs last weekend in their 2-1 victory over Wolves.

This is set to be a tight game and it’s unlikely to be settled by more than a single goal either way.

TEAMS PREVIEW

Southampton FC Preview

Reasons to be cheerful:

     First home game of the season could inspire them

     Have won four of their last five against Leeds

Reasons to be fearful:

     Unsure of where goals will come from

     Need new players in several areas

Southampton are a team who could be dragged into a relegation battle this season. If they aren’t careful, and don’t manage to bring in more recruits before the transfer window closes, they could be in for a long, hard season.

They opened the scoring against Spurs last weekend, although they went on to lose 4-1. 

It’s unsure of where their goals will come from. Armstrong has two in his 29 appearances for the Saints, while Che Adams could be on his way out of the club.

They also look as though they need defensive recruits, while new midfielder Lavia will need time to settle.

Southampton have a good recent record against Leeds, but it’s hard to see that continuing here.

Star Man – James Ward-Prowse

Their captain is their best player and, at times, the only one who shows real quality in a Saints shirt. His goals, and his set pieces, will be crucial this season.

Leeds United Preview

Reasons to be cheerful

     Have shown flashes of improvement under Marsch

     Won three of their last five away games last season

Reasons to be fearful

     Lost their best player in Raphinha

     Poor record against Saints

Leeds have more cause for optimism right now than their opponents, not least than their win over Wolves last weekend. 

To kickstart their season with three points is crucial, especially having barely escaped relegation at the end of the last campaign.

Leeds are another who could do with strengthening their squad, particularly after the departure of Raphinha for Barcelona this summer.

However, having key striker Patrick Bamford back from long-term injury is important for Leeds, who will look to improve upon their 17th place finish last season.

Star Man – Patrick Bamford

The English striker has scored in his last three appearances against Southampton. The target man offers Leeds their best chance of staying up again this season.