Expected Southampton lineup vs Crystal Palace: Juric to deploy familiar routine? | OneFootball

Ivan Juric is touted to prefer his tried and tested lineup routine against Crystal Palace and could opt a similar team-sheet for tonight's match.

Consistency is deemed as an undeniable key factor in the Premier League and for Southampton, their lucky charm arrives today. Yes, the Saints are finally tipped to field their defensive mainstays in action except any last minute injury hiccups.

After all, the Saints can't trust their fitness front these days. Well, assuming that they steer clear of any physical concern coming their way, there are still many unanswered questions about whom to trust at St. Mary's for having a good shot at the three points?

Keeping this objective in mind, below is our strongest Saints playing eleven that is expected to receive the starting nod for today's matchup.

Southampton expected to push for valuable clean-sheet

GK: Aaron Ramsdale

For all the transfer speculations surrounding him, Ramsdale's playing spot is never in doubt whenever he is available to play.

CB: Jan Bednarek

Needs to start the game gradually after picking up a couple of swift fatigues recently. Clearly, his tackles and interventions are a welcome addition to the squad but whether his pace will be satisfactory after missing many games can't be concluded yet.

CB: Taylor Harwood-Bellis

Has been in the same unfortunate boat as Bednarek but can be relied on more than the latter when it comes to passing and recovering ball possessions.

CB: James Bree

Honestly, Bree isn't an elite centre-back like his other counterparts but needs to rise to the occasion here. On top of that, Bree can be handed more responsibilities if Bednarek's Southampton return doesn't properly go to plan.

LWB: Ryan Manning

Essential Southampton fullback to keep Palace wingers in check and Juric mustn't substitute him rapidly.

RWB: Kyle Walker-Peters

Mostly operated as a central defender last month but will be given more freedom to advance in the Palace half.

CM: Joe Aribo

Another non-negotiable presence who is adamant about giving his level best as he does always.

CM: Mateus Fernandes

Can change the flow of Southampton's attacking phases and his corners can be the difference-maker in the Palace meeting.

LW: Kamaldeen Sulemana

Initiates multiple scoring chances in every game but needs to back his finishing otherwise can be brought off for Albert Gronbaek.