Virgil van Dijk
Virgil van Dijk is a defender who is very comfortable on the ball and he can also step into midfield which helps Southampton push up the pitch. He’s a big threat from set pieces because of his aerial ability and his physicality and athleticism means he loves to defend and he’s not afraid of players with pace. He’s a fantastic centre back and Sunderland fans will no doubt remember him after he netted that late equaliser last season.
Charlie Austin
Charlie Austin hasn’t started the last two games and he’s come off the bench in both, but I think they may start him in this one. Finishing is his strong point but he’s also very good in the air and he will work hard in and out of possession. When the ball goes wide he will be straight into the mix to try and get on the end of it, so our defenders need to keep a close eye on his movement with and without the ball.
Nathan Redmond
Nathan Redmond has just signed for the club and although he’s already made an impression he will want to continue his positive form. He’s a player I like lot and he has a big future ahead of him; he has great feet and is excellent in one on one situations, so if he’s up against Patrick van Aanholt it will be a great battle because the Dutchman is very quick across the ground. He cost them £12m but he’s already started to pay that back with a goal on his debut and a couple of very good performances.
Anyone else…
I’ll also be looking out for Shane Long because he’s a hard-working and very good centre forward; I love his commitment and he has great pace and an even better finish. The last player to watch is Dusan Tadic because he really is one of Southampton’s key players and his assists over the seasons have been up there with players at top-four clubs. He loves to attack and pick passes while being very comfortable on the ball, and he is a player Sunderland need to be aware of.
