'That never bodes well': Chris Sutton predicts who'll win between Arsenal and Southampton today
10/05/2024 01:15 AM
Arsenal will look to make it four wins in a row when they host Premier League strugglers Southampton on Saturday.
The Gunners remain unbeaten this season and have also won their last three consecutive games in all competitions.
Arsenal will be up against a Southampton side that is yet to win in the league this season and only has one point to their name.
However, the Saints have some reason for optimism, considering they have wins on board in the Carabao Cup.
They beat Cardiff City in the second round before overcoming Everton on penalties in the following round.
BBC Sport pundit Chris Sutton has now shared his prediction for the game at the Emirates Stadium.
Chris Sutton backs Arsenal to run out 3-0 winners over Southampton
Sutton, writing on BBC Sport, said he has “lots of admiration” for Saints boss Russell Martin, because he sticks to his principles.
However, he said he was worried about how Martin called his players out after their loss at the hands of south coast rivals Bournemouth.
Sutton went on to claim Arsenal will likely have too much for the struggling Saints on the day, predicting a 3-0 home win.
“Arsenal are so adaptable and know how to win any game, something you cannot say about Southampton at the moment,” he said.
“I was a bit worried to see Saints boss Russell Martin call his players out publicly after their defeat by Bournemouth, because that never bodes well.
“I have lots of admiration for Russell, who sticks to his principles about how he wants his team to play, but Arsenal are so streetwise and ruthless, this could turn into a tough afternoon for them.
“The Gunners' defence is so strong, they will keep a clean sheet – I am expecting everyone to go for a 3-0 Arsenal win here, the readers included!”
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Arsenal v Southampton team news
Gunners defenders Ben White and Jurrien Timber are in contention to return in Saturday’s game Southampton, as per the Evening Standard.
White missed the wins over Leicester and Paris Saint-Germain, while Timber was replaced at the break against the French giants.
Fellow defender Takehiro Tomiyasu is also close to a return in pursuit of his first outing of the season.
Meanwhile, midfielder Mikel Merino is back in action and in the frame for his first Premier League appearance.
As for Southampton, they are expected to still be without Gavin Bazunu, Kamaldeen Sulemana, Jack Stephens and Will Smallbone.
Saints goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale is expected to face his former club for the first time since his summer move from N5.
