Southampton vs West Ham: Boxing Day Clash Preview
The Premier League returns with a Boxing Day showdown as Southampton vs West Ham takes center stage. Both teams are battling at opposite ends of the table, with Southampton desperate for a turnaround under new manager Ivan Juric, while West Ham aim to maintain their recent unbeaten streak.
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— Southampton FC (@SouthamptonFC) December 24, 2024
Staplewood sessions: Jurić edition 🎬 pic.twitter.com/Zooiqzp5dP
Southampton Preview: Can Juric Inspire a Miracle?
Southampton’s season has been nothing short of disastrous, with the Saints languishing at the bottom of the table after collecting just six points from their first 17 matches. The 5-0 thrashing by Tottenham earlier this month marked the end of Russell Martin’s tenure, and interim coach Simon Rusk managed to steady the ship slightly with a goalless draw against Fulham last weekend.
Now, Ivan Juric steps into the dugout for his first game as Southampton boss. The former Roma manager has promised that the Saints are capable of “something exceptional,” and Boxing Day could be the perfect stage to begin their revival. However, with injuries to key players like Will Smallbone and Gavin Bazunu, Juric faces a tough task in his debut.
Southampton Predicted XI (3-4-2-1):
Goalkeeper (GK):
- Ramsdale
Defenders (DF):
- Harwood-Bellis, Bednarek, Stephens
Midfielders (MF):
- Right wing-back: Sugawara
- Central midfielders: Downes, Aribo
- Left wing-back: Walker-Peters
Attacking midfielders (AM):
- Fernandes, Dibling
Forward (FW):
Armstrong
West Ham Preview: Lopetegui Under Pressure
West Ham, under Julen Lopetegui, have had a mixed season but are currently enjoying a three-match unbeaten run. Wins against Wolves and draws with Bournemouth and Brighton have kept the Hammers just above the relegation zone. However, inconsistency remains a concern, especially away from home.
The absence of Lucas Paqueta due to suspension is a significant blow, while Konstantinos Mavropanos is a doubt after being substituted at halftime in their last match. Lopetegui will hope his side can capitalize on Southampton’s struggles, but the Hammers must be wary of a rejuvenated Saints team under new management.
West Ham Predicted XI (4-1-4-1):
Goalkeeper (GK):
- Fabianski
Defenders (DF):
- Right-back: Wan-Bissaka
- Center-backs: Todibo, Kilman
- Left-back: Emerson
Midfielders (MF):
- Defensive midfielder: Alvarez
- Right-midfield: Bowen
- Central midfielders: Soler, Soucek
- Left-midfield: Kudus
Forward (FW):
Striker: Fullkrug
Key Matchup: Boxing Day Drama
Boxing Day fixtures often deliver surprises, and this clash has all the ingredients for an upset. Southampton’s direct approach under interim management showed promise against Fulham, and with the home crowd behind them, they could trouble a West Ham side that has struggled for consistency.
Southampton vs West Ham Prediction
Southampton are in desperate need of a miracle, and Boxing Day could be the perfect time to spark one. With a new manager at the helm and a slightly more effective style of play, the Saints might just have enough to frustrate West Ham. The Hammers, while unbeaten in three, have shown vulnerabilities, particularly on the road.
Prediction: Southampton to win or draw (Double chance).
