AHEAD of the FA Cup clash on the south coast, the Advertiser spoke to Southampton fan Chris Havard to get his thoughts. He believes Jason Puncheon and Dwight Gayle will be ones to watch for Palace but he has gone for an interesting scoreline, too…
Both teams are in form heading into the game? What are you expecting?
On paper, I think we are the stronger team heading into the game, but we need to be careful not to underestimate Palace. With Alan Pardew now in charge, they seem to be finding their form. We'll be confident after continuing our fine season with a win at Newcastle last week. A run in the FA Cup would be an added bonus to what is already a successful season.
Ronald Koeman seems to have found a gem in Eljero Elia, hasn't he?
It's early days, but he certainly repaid Koeman's faith in him at Newcastle. He had a big reputation a few years ago but has faltered. Time will tell of course but he's looking promising for us. With Sadio Mane missing through injury, we need some pace in attack and Elia will certainly provide that.
Palace will buoyed with their 3-2 win at Burnley. What do you think of the Eagles?
I think the Eagles can be a force to be reckoned with on their day. They have shown they shouldn't be underestimated after their win at Burnley, which followed their 2-1 victory against Spurs. Dwight Gayle will be looking for more goals, while Saints old boy Jason Puncheon has hit some form again and it wouldn't surprise me if he has a good game on Saturday.
A return for Alan Pardew at St Mary's. Will he get a good reception?
I think the fans should remember that he helped us to victory at Wembley not too long ago, winning the Johnstone's Pain Trophy. We were so close to a play-off place in League One in 2010 as well but it wasn't to be. However, as we know, Southampton have certainly come a long way since then.
And finally, a score prediction?
I am going to be bold with this. Palace will be a tough nut to crack but I'm going for a big 3-0 to the Saints. Don't ask me who will score our goals though!
