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The story of Southampton was for most analysts the real story of last season. To lose the very essence of their team and to then be competing for a Champions League place through the New Year was sensational. Ronald Koeman must take a good deal of the credit.
Roll on 12 months and Morgan Schneiderlin and Nathaniel Clyne have both moved on to pastures new. Toby Alderweireld was expected to sign a permanent deal, but instead has departed for Spurs. No 1 Goalkeeper Fraser Forster is recovering from a long term injury and will not be available in the early season. Can Koeman work his magic once more?
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Well this time Koeman has started much earlier in filling the holes in his roster. He has already acquired former Holland Goalkeeper Maarteen Stekelenburg, Portugese international right back Cedric Soares and versatile Defender Cuco Martina. He has also added Spanish attacker Jaunmi from Malaga to his line up.
Southampton's success has however been built on the quality of their own academy and this season James Ward-Prowse should get more opportunities to show his talent. Victor Wanyama is a player we like a lot and is the man that holds the team together allowing the likes of Dusan Tadic the freedom to attack the opposition.
The return of Jay Rodriguez is another boost to the club. The scorer of 15 goals for the club in his shortened 2013/14 season, Rodriguez suffered an ACL injury last year but is now expected to resume his career. He will potentially form a dynaic partnership with Graziano Pelle.
Look for Koeman to work his magic again and for the Saints to have a comfortable season in mid table.
Prediction : No problems for Southampton to retain their status a top half finish awaits.
Players to watch: Cedric Soares (Defender), Dusan Tadic (Midfield), Jay Rodriguez (Attacker)
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