Magpies downed, Canaries next
Southampton will be calling on their confidence from the Newcastle game to continue their turn in form against Norwich.
In theory it is perfect timing. With Saints looking like a different team since the West Brom defeat, another home game against a bottom half side is just what the doctor ordered, and furthermore against one that hasn't won on the road yet this season.
The way Norwich set up could be ideal for Nigel Adkins as, especially away from home, Norwich look happy to concede possession and let their opponents have the ball. This looks like it could be an increasingly dangerous ploy with the recent performances of the Saints attacking support trio of Lallana, Ramirez and Puncheon.
From a defensive point of view, Adam Lallana may also have a big part to play. Norwich strongly favour their right hand flank for their attacks, using the skill of Snodgrass and Hoolahan to cause their intended damage. Lallana will have to be wary of this, and like a captain should, protect young Luke Shaw on that left hand side.
The back four will also need to be mindful of the Canaries forward Grant Holt. A talisman for the Carrow Road side in the last couple of seasons, he hasn't hit the same kind of form yet this term, but will always be a threat. The potential for a second consecutive clean sheet is there for all to see, but Holt/Hoolahan/Snodgrass (players we are familiar with) are all capable of ruining the evening.
The last time Saints faced Norwich in a league game at St Mary's it was nearly exactly three years ago in League One. Kudos to Morgan Schneiderlin, Rickie Lambert, Lalllana, Wes Hoolahan and Holt. They all started that day, and will all likely start again tomorrow in the Premier League.
Tomorrow may see the return of Drew Surman too, anther sad loss of the administration era from Saints youth setup. Surman was a popular figure at St Mary's, and it will be good to see him back, but like Alan Pardew, hopefully he will walk out a loser.
Saints are on a run now, and given Norwich's away form I would say that if Saints perform to the best of their ability they should have too much for Chris Hughton's side, we mustn't rest on our laurels though after a couple of good victories.
Hard work beats talent, if talent doesn't work hard. Now is not the time to lose momentum.
Keep the faith.
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