Southampton begin their EFL Cup campaign with a trip to the Welsh capital.
Back-to-back 1-0 defeats in their opening two Premier League fixtures leaves Southampton as one of only five sides yet to acquire a point in the top-flight, despite Russell Martin‘s side impressing and dominating possession across both games.
However, due to lacking a cutting edge in the final third, the Saints have struggled to produce any meaningful efforts on goal – registering just one shot on target against Nottingham Forest on Saturday compared to their opponents’ eight – leaving much to be desired.
As for Cardiff, they have had a disastrous start to the season under new manager Erol Bulut, with the Bluebirds bottom of the Championship after losing two and drawing one. Their only win so far came in the opening round of this competition, where they beat Bristol Rovers 2-0.
But, a late draw against rivals Swansea in their most recent outing could boost spirits amongst the Cardiff squad, although it won’t be easy against a Southampton side who have a point to prove.
-
Team News
Cardiff:
A lengthy injury list for the Bluebirds means that Joe Ralls, Ryotaro Tsunoda, Will Fish, Kion Etete, Isaak Davies and Jamilu Collins will all miss out.
Callum Robinson netted Cardiff’s first league goal of the season at the weekend against Swansea, and he is expected to replace Wilfried Kanga in attack, whilst former Aston Villa winger Anwar El Ghazi could start.
Southampton:
For the away side, Russell Martin confirmed in his press conference today that his squad is close to full fitness, with Adam Lallana returning and in contention for this game.
Ross Stewart and Kamaldeen Sulemana are also back in training but this tie will come too soon for the pair, whilst Juan Larios is gaining match fitness with the under-21’s.
The manager also confirmed Mateus Fernandes and Lesley Ugochukwu will be starting, whilst Cameron Archer, Nathan Wood and Ronnie Edwards could all also receive their first start. Youngsters Tyler Dibling and Sam Amo-Ameyaw are likely to feature in, what is expected to be, a heavily rotated side.
-
Likely Lineups
Cardiff: (4-2-3-1)
Alnwick; Ng, Chambers, Daland, O’Dowda; Siopis, Roberston; El Ghazi, Ramsey, Méïté; Robinson
Southampton (4-3-3)
Lumley; Bree, Wood, Edwards, Taylor; Ugochukwu, Fernandes, Dibling; Edozie, Archer, Amo-Ameyaw
-
Key Players
Cardiff – Aaron Ramsey
With such a big name in the team, it is hard to select anyone else as Cardiff’s key player.
Ramsey is a Premier League veteran with the all the experience and know-how when it comes to playing in the biggest games, something that could prove vital during this tie.
Although he is heading towards the end of his playing career, at 33-years-old he can still be the difference-maker in games, something proven when he stays fit.
The midfield battle could be key for whoever comes up trumps during this fixture, and expect Ramsey to be eager in winning it.
Southampton – Mateus Fernandes
Speaking of winning the midfield battle, Fernandes will be hungry to do so on his first start for his new club.
The Portuguese player received 20 minutes against Nottingham Forest at the weekend, with the central-midfielder making a good impression as he looked comfortable on the ball and attempted to create chances with it.
With his manager confirming he will be starting in this tie, Fernandes’ footballing IQ could help his side breeze past Cardiff and into the third round.
-
Match Details
Where is the game being played?
The match is being played at the Cardiff City Stadium, the home of Cardiff City Football Club.
What time is kick-off?
The game will kick-off 7:45PM (BST) on Wednesday 28th August.
Leave a Reply