Everton face a tricky trip to last season’s surprise package, Southampton, on Saturday. We spoke to Ben Hooke from Read Southampton for a Saints perspective ahead of the game.
1. Give us your assessment of Southampton’s pre-season/season up to now. Have the club progressed under the new manager? Where do you expect to finish?
Pre-season was really positive. Obviously we went to Holland; beat Feyenoord 3-0 at De Kuip before beating Vitesse in Europe too. We’ve progressed hugely in the last season under Koeman. We’re tough to beat. Defensively we’re leaps and bounds better than we were.
2. How is Ronald Koeman getting on? Is he destined for the very top?
Koeman is clever, first and foremost. He’s versatile with his formations. We used 4-2-3-1 a lot last year but we used 3-5-2, 4-4-1-1 too. But he’s a good man to have around the club; much more friendly and open than his predecessor.
3. Saints have once again been productive in the transfer market. What do you make of Southampton’s new signings?
They needed to be made. We lost three top players (Clyne, Schneiderlin, Alderweireld) but we’ve brought in quality and quantity – which we had to do with the Europa League’s extra games.
4. How do you view Everton?
Everton were disappointing last year, but you could see why – small squad, lots of games. The Europa League stopped their season getting started for me.
5. How do you expect us to do this season?
I’ve got you down as a carbon copy of what Saints did last year – although seeing the game against Watford last weekend made me question that slightly.
6. What do you make of Roberto Martinez?
Good manager – think being at a club like Everton is tough for him. Very different challenge to Swansea and Wigan.
7. Which 3 Everton players would you take to St Mary’s given the chance?
Stones, McCarthy, Mirallas. Stones in particular – big fan.
8. Which Saints players should Everton be wary of on Sunday?
Mane is the danger man for us. Our No. 10 can hurt teams on his day. Also, Pelle is looking good – three goals in as many competitive games so far this season.
9. And who will home fans fear in a blue shirt?
Coleman stands out as a threat down the flank. He scored a cracker against us two seasons ago.
10. Likely Southampton team and score prediction?
Steklenburg; Soares, Fonte, Yoshida, Targett; Wanyama, Davis, Ward-Prowse; Tadic, Mane, Pelle.
2-1 to Southampton.
Thanks to Ben for his time. Be sure to follow @ReadSouthampton
