Southampton face a relegation six-pointer against Ipswich Town on Saturday, with Paul Merson now issuing his score prediction for the clash.
Southampton welcome Ipswich Town to the Premier League in a critical match at the bottom of the table.
The Saints are yet to secure a single point in the 2024/25 campaign, although they will be looking to carry the momentum gained from Tuesday’s penalty shootout win over Everton in the Carabao Cup.
Russell Martin’s men were solid in the first half against Manchester United last weekend and should have gone ahead in the match when Cameron Archer missed his penalty.
There were however, plenty of positives to take from that defeat and they must carry them into their clash with Ipswich.
Paul Merson thinks Ipswich have ‘the edge’ over Southampton
Southampton can ill afford to go much longer without registering a single point on the board this term if they are to avoid the relegation trap door.
The Premier League’s record goal scorer Alan Shearer believes Southampton could ‘struggle’ this season and predicts Ipswich to secure all three points.
Shearer isn’t the only pundit predicting an away win, as Paul Merson believes Kieran McKenna’s men have ‘the edge’ over the Saints, citing their threat in transition and firepower as reasons why the Saints should be fearful.
Predicting a narrow 2-1 victory for Ipswich, Merson wrote in his column for Sportskeeda: “Wow, this is a proper cup final! It’s lights out for whoever loses this game. If Southampton or Ipswich lose, they’ll start to think ‘when are we actually going to win a game?’ We’re moving towards the end of September and both teams have failed to register a win yet.
“This is their best opportunity to get the first three points of the season, a must-win clash if you ask me.
“Southampton are getting a bit predictable and that could hurt them. Last week, if Cameron Archer scores that penalty, they beat Manchester United. But he missed the spot-kick and then they conceded two minutes later.
“I just think Ipswich hold the edge here. They are a better side in transition and have the firepower to hurt Southampton. A draw wouldn’t help anybody and Ipswich will know what must be done to get the win.”
Southampton’s lack of firepower could cost them Premier League survival
Southampton have looked impressive for spells in their first four Premier League matches but when on top, the Saints have failed to hammer home their advantage.
Archer’s penalty miss in the defeat to United epitomised the fine margins in elite-level sport, as one mistake was punished ruthlessly by Erik ten Hag’s side.
For Southampton to avoid the drop, they must turn their positive possession into goals and fast, otherwise, it’s difficult to see how this team survives.
A home clash against Ipswich represents a great opportunity to get three points on the board however, that is easier said than done and the Saints will have to be wary of the counter punch.