It was a return to winning ways for Claude Puel’s Southampton over the course of the weekend, much to the delight of the Saints fans propping up the bar in the Transfer Tavern.
The fact they were able to put one over on former boss Ronald Koeman made the three points even sweeter as they ran rampant over Everton, picking up from a relative slump that saw them lose to Hull City and Sparta Prague.
Next up is the short trip up to the Emirates to take on Arsenal in the quarter-final of the EFL Cup, looking to replicate the sort of performance they produced in the league there earlier this season.
While the south coast side ultimately lost that day, it was an unlucky outing, with the Gunners lucky to get a last-minute penalty, against the run of play.
With that in mind, here’s the XI Puel should field to get his revenge on former mentor, Arsene Wenger.
GK: Fraser Forster
Not much more to say about Fraser Forster, who is a huge presence between the sticks for the Saints.
Vital for Puel.
RB: Cuco Martina
Largely lambasted for some of his defending, Cuco Martina seems to still be living off of THAT goal he scored against the Gunners back on Boxing Day 2015.
Will be in for a tough night.
CB: Jose Fonte
Hasn’t looked quite as formidable this term, though Saints skipper Jose Fonte remains a huge part of one of the best defences in the league.
Hugely experienced and a Southampton stalwart.
CB: Virgil van Djik
One of, if not the most complete defender in England, Virgil van Djik is a huge part of this Southampton side in every aspect.
Formidable in defence and fantastic in attack, the flying Dutchman is tailor-made for this kind of game.
LB: Sam McQueen
Has been a revelation this season and is finally a decent alternative to the excellent Ryan Bertrand.
It seems like he’s destined for big things.
CM: Jordy Clasie
Really needs a big night to prove just what he can offer, with so many more dynamic options available in central midfield berths.
Will have to be at his tenacious best.
CM: Oriol Romeu
One of those aforementioned more dynamic options is a certain Oriol Romeu.
Physical and robust enough to deal with life in England, he possesses the passing ability you’d expect from a graduate of the famed La Masia.
CM: Steven Davis
Missed the weekend’s win with illness but will surely be back doing what he does best in central midfield for the Saints.
The Northern Ireland international goes about his business quietly and skillfully, knowing exactly what to do in these type of games.
RW: Shane Long
Not really hit the heights he was at towards the latter half of last season, though Shane Long will remain a threat when running behind when Arsenal are inevitably hit on the counter.
Could be in for a good night.
ST: Jay Rodriguez
The devastating injury he picked up back in 2014 really has rocked Jay Rodriguez no end and a man who once played for England is looking like a shadow of his former self.
Good to see him handed a chance, but the ex-Burnley ace desperately needs to start taking his chances when served on a plate for him.
LW: Dusan Tadic
While the world awaits Sofiane Boufal, Puel should turn to Dusan Tadic on the left of this three-pronged attack.
Not the most direct, his elusive movement will be hard for Arsenal to pick up and he could help create space for others.
