The former captain is the last man to lead the Southampton to victory at Wembley against Manchester United.
Southampton’s Manolo Gabbiadini with Southampton manager Claude Puel after being substituted
Dean Hammond believes that Southampton will defeat Manchester United in the EFL Cup final this weekend.
Hammond is the last man to lead Southampton out at Wembley, after victory in the Johnstone’s Paint Trophy versus Carlisle United in 2010.
In an interview with the club’s official website, the Saints’ former captain stated that, while the opposition will be tough, he believes Southampton will emerge victorious.
“It will be a close game I think, it won’t be an open game, it won’t be a 4-3 or a 3-3. It will be a tight game, but I think Southampton will edge it.”
Southampton face United in the final on Sunday following their victory against Liverpool in the semi-final. The Saints’ form in the Premier League has been mixed, with a recent 4-0 win against strugglers Sunderland countered by a 3-1 loss to West Ham.
However, the form of recent signing Manolo Gabbiadini, plus the capture of former Juventus and Barcelona centre back Martin Caceres, leaves many Southampton fans hopeful of their first silverware in seven years.
Southampton’s Southampton manager Claude Puel arrives at the stadium
Speaking about his own experience in the cup, Hammond said “The mentality we had when we played was to win, because I don’t care what anyone says, you only enjoy it if you win.”
Southampton defeated Carlisle 4-1 in 2010, with goals from eventual Premier League regulars Adam Lallana, Rickie Lambert and Michail Antonio.
Speaking on the importance of the victory for Southampton, Hammond praised the club’s progress: “It would show how far the club has come. It would be another great moment for the fans and the history of the football club.”
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