Mark Hughes to make no changes – Strongest 4-4-2 Southampton XI to face Leicester City

Predicted Southampton line-up to face Leicester City in the Premier League

After narrowly escaping the drop last season, Southampton have made a dismal start to their campaign, taking just one point in their opening two games of the season.

The Saints lost 2-1 away to Everton last weekend and will be facing a Leicester City side that picked up its first win last season. The pressure is starting to mount on Mark Hughes and the manager has to deliver sooner than later.

Team News

New signings Mohamed Elyounoussi and Jannik Vestergaard are both injured for the game. Vestergaard could be in contention for next week’s game but Elyounoussi will take some time to return to the line-up.

Apart from that, Mark Hughes has a fully-fit squad to face the Foxes this weekend.

Probable Southampton XI

Manager: Mark Hughes

Formation: 4-4-2

Alex McCarthy (GK)

McCarthy has been brilliant in goal after ousting Fraser Forster and should continue in goal this week.

Cedric Soares (RB)

The Portuguese international didn’t have a good game last week but will nevertheless start against the Foxes.

Jack Stephens (CB)

Stephens has been impressive for the Saints so far and should be fielded once again.

Wesley Hoedt (CB)

Hoedt made the move to St. Mary’s last year and quickly established himself as a regular in the squad.

Ryan Bertrand (LB)

The Saints’ captain is yet to hit full throttle this season but is one of the most vital players for Mark Hughes. His raids down the left flank will make things difficult for the Foxes.

James Ward-Prowse (RM)

Ward-Prowse did well after being fielded as a wide man in the previous game. His distribution is excellent in the final third.

Oriol Romeu (RCM)

The Saints’ tough-tackling midfielder is a thorn in the side for any opponent and makes it hard for the markers to do their job in the midfield.

Mario Lemina (LCM)

Lemina provided an assist for Southampton’s goal against Everton. His set-piece prowess makes him a dangerous player for the Foxes to face.

Nathan Redmond (LM)

Redmond has failed to replicate the form he initially showed after making the move to St. Mary’s. But the former Norwich City man’s direct running on the ball gives defenders a torrid time.

Danny Ings (ST)

The Liverpool loanee scored a goal on his debut and proved his ability as a good finisher. He should start against Leicester City.

Read more: Why it’s high time Southampton’s out of favor 22-year-old to head out on loan this month

Charlie Austin (ST)

Austin and Ings were devastating together but failed to guide the Saints to a win. The pair should be partnered once again.