Combined Best XI: Southampton vs. Manchester City

By Larry Henry | Apr 14, 2017

MANCHESTER, ENGLAND - OCTOBER 23: Raheem Sterling of Manchester City holds off Cuco Martina of Southampton during the Premier League match between Manchester City and Southampton at Etihad Stadium on October 23, 2016 in Manchester, England. (Photo by Robbie Jay Barratt - AMA/Getty Images) /

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LONDON, ENGLAND – MARCH 19: Manolo Gabbiadini of Southampton during the Premier League match between Tottenham Hotspur and Southampton at White Hart Lane on March 19, 2017 in London, England. (Photo by Catherine Ivill – AMA/Getty Images) /

Second Striker – Manolo Gabbiadini

After joining from Napoli in January, Gabbiadini had a quick start to his Premier League career. Six goals in his first four appearances for the team in all competitions, showed his ability in Charlie Austin’s absence. A groin injury has slowed Gabbiadini up lately, but should be available on Saturday for Saints which is a big boost. Jay Rodriguez’s inconsistency paired with Austin’s injury problems has allowed the Italian to jump right into the starting forward role. He is a big body that can push opposing defenders around, while always being a threat in the air.

With some big matches coming up to close April, Manchester City would love to earn three points on the road. With only three victories at St. Mary’s out of seven matches, the odds will be against Guardiola’s men, but I expect them to get after the South Coast side.