Ahead of this weekend’s Premier League opener against Southampton, we caught up with Saints fan and young writer Matt Clewes for his insight into Sunday’s game. Here’s what he had to say:
Southampton enjoyed a very successful campaign last season, finishing 7th and securing a Europa League qualifying place. Has their pre-season preparation filled you with the hope that they’ll replicate last season’s form, despite a few notable exits this summer?
Pre-season this year has gone much smoother as there wasn’t as much hype over players leaving apart from seeing Morgan go. Saints have looked great especially with his replacement Jordy Clasie coming in. Also being apart of the Europa League will only help the team to gel and gain more experience as the season starts to progress. So more of the same is what the aim will be and to also replicate last year’s success.
Which news arrivals should Newcastle be wary of?
If fit, as mentioned before Jordy Clasie has huge potential as he has shown from his time in Holland. He can make a big impact from his central midfield role and he’s still young so can hopefully progress. Cedric Soares has some pace coming down the right-hand side, but also Juanmi, who came in from Malaga, could cause trouble off the bench.
What do you make of Newcastle’s business so far this summer?
Newcastle are trying to bring back some success that the fans really want, with everything happening with the owner, I think the business done has been well thought of. Wijnaldum has great potential and is probably on the same level as Memphis Depay so that’s done no harm at all. As for Mitrovic, at age 20, with the goals he’s scored would be a huge coup for any side in the Premier League.
What about Newcastle’s managerial appointment? Do you reckon McClaren is good enough to manage in the Premier League?
Steve McClaren has proved that he can be someone’s right-hand man but hasn’t quite done it when being the main man in the Premier League. He got success with Twente and he’s done the rounds in Europe so he has that experience. I was a little surprised to see him appointed, but the club have stuck to the English coach theme. Like anyone, he’s got to be given time especially with the investments made and who knows what could happen.
Which Newcastle players (if any) would you take at Southampton?
You can never have too many goalscorers in your side and even though he’s still young and has to prove himself. If Mitrovic gets going and has a good year then I would be happy seeing him wearing a Southampton shirt. If you give the ball to him he looks a threat at any time.
Who will the Saints fear in a black and white shirt?
I think there’s probably three players that are key for Newcastle. Wijnaldum, Sissoko and Mitrovic. The two new signings will want to prove themselves on debut especially in front of a home crowd. But then Sissoko always seems to have something special up his sleeve that could pull the strings for you.
Finally, your predicted line-up and score prediction.
(Depending on how the second leg in Vitesse goes) Stekelenburg, Soares, Fonte, Yoshida, Targett, Ward-Prowse, Clasie, Wanyama, Mané, Tadic, Long.
Saints to win 2-1.
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