Southampton v Charlton Preview

Posted on | April 3, 2009 | No Comments

These are two clubs in serious difficulties – both on and off the pitch. With Charlton now fourteen points adrift of safety with just seven games remaining it looks as though they’re certainly down, while Southampton are also in the relegation zone although just three points separate them from 21st placed Plymouth.

We mentioned that these clubs both have their off the field problems, although it’s Southampton’s which have reached boiling point this week. The parent company of Saints has been placed into administration and that’s brought on a whole load of questions on what will happen to Southampton. People are wondering whether or not they’ll be hit with the ten point penalty reduction – or whether or not they’ll even complete the season. Obviously, only time will tell on those points, but it can’t be having a positive effect on the players. Mark Wotte’s men have failed to win in their last four games although with three of those ending in draws, at least it shows they’re a relatively tough team to beat. At this stage in the season all that matters is victories though and Saints must convert some of these ties into three points if they are to live to fight another season in this division.

Charlton on the other hand look down and out. With the Addicks being fourteen points adrift from safety, it really would be one of the greatest escapes of all time if they were to survive. Their supporters have already accepted that it’s going to be League One next season, although that shouldn’t mean that they don’t have anything to play for. Relegation will mean that certain players will be looking for new clubs, while others will be playing for new contracts. Phil Parkinson’s men have in fact managed a couple of decent results in the last few weeks following draws against promotion chasing Reading and Preston. However, it really is a case of too little too late and you’d be an absolute fool to bet on the Addicks remaining in this division.

As for team news, Southampton were handed a blow this week with the news that Simon Gillett would be out for the rest of the season due to an ankle problem. However, Mark Wotte has received some good news, with influential midfielder Morgan Schneiderlin and striker David McGoldrick both looking to feature after early fitness scares. There’s not much to report for Chartlon with Darren Ambrose being the only doubt as he tries to beat a thigh problem. However, Phil Parkinson is expected to make changes and may give youth players a chance in preparation for next season.

In terms of a prediction, we can only look at a home win. Charlton are down and out and have been truly awful this season, while Southampton still have everything to play for and will be desperate for points to aid their survival – 2-0 Saints.

Related posts:

1. Charlton v Southampton Preview
2. Coventry v Southampton Preview
3. Southampton v Watford Preview
4. Southampton v Millwall Preview
5. Southampton v Nottingham Forest Preview

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