Can the aftermath of 9-0 win result in both teams getting better? It may sound bizarre but looking back at Leicester’s obliteration of Southampton at St. Mary’s, one can make the argument that the game marked a crossroads for both sides. Up until then, Leicester were looked at as contenders for a top six spot, and possibly gatecrashers into the top four. After the win, Brendan Rodgers declared for the first time that the Foxes were confident of qualifying for the Champions League. His words have borne out to be true as only an epic collapse will deprive them of returning to Europe’s elite competition.
That Ralph Hassenhuttl was still in a job after that infamous result has to be one of the most remarkable examples of patience I have seen in Premier League history. The Southampton board deserve praise for staying the course and believing in Hassenhuttl and his process. They have been richly rewarded with the Austrian gaffer rejuvenating his team with some tweaks and a new tactical impetus. It has also helped that Danny Ings has stayed free of injury, resulting in the Saints actually finishing the chances they create.
A month ago, I would have predicted a comfortable home win. I can’t say the same now. Southampton have backed up crucial wins in relegation six-pointers with impressive victories over Chelsea and Spurs. Meanwhile Leicester have looked just a tad below their imperious best in recent games. Should make for an unpredictable cracker.