Southampton have struggled this season and the Sky Sports pundit wondered whether the Saints boss’ future at St Mary’s Stadium is under threat.
Sky Sports pundit Charlie Nicholas has given his verdict on the future of Southampton manager Ralph Hasenhuttl ahead of the Saints taking on Manchester City away for the second time this week (Sky Sports News).
Southampton have endured a difficult start to the season, losing six of their 10 Premier League games so far this term to find themselves in the bottom three of the table.
The 9-0 loss to Leicester at St Mary’s Stadium last time out in the league was a particularly low point, and there were fears over how the Saints would cope away at Man City in the League Cup.
While Hasenhuttl’s side lost 3-1 at the Etihad in midweek, their improved performance on the night was a bit more reassuring for the Saints fanbase following the horror show last week.
Nicholas described Tuesday night’s outcome as a “wonder result” for Southampton, going on to claim that Hasenhuttl is not under pressure at St Mary’s and should not be.
However, he also warned that, with the international break coming up and goal difference potentially playing a big part in the title race, Guardiola would select and line up his charges for maximum damage on Saturday.
“What a wonder result for Southampton, only losing 3-1 through the week to – dare I say – ease the pain,” Nicholas wrote on Sky Sports News. “Should Ralph Hasenhuttl be under pressure? No and don’t think he is. It is one of the weekends where Southampton will wonder what to do. They will want to get over the line without being too embarrassed.
“Will Pep Guardiola rest some players? There is an international break coming up so I don’t think he will. The title could go down to goal difference so they will want to rattle in as many goals as possible. If Southampton want to counter-attack and sit in then so be it, City will welcome it. It is another hammering incoming.”
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
