EPL: Southampton v Bournemouth preview

Southampton v Bournemouth preview

Jack Stephens returns from suspension as Southampton target a crucial victory against south-coast rivals Bournemouth on Saturday.

Stephens has been suspended for the last three matches as Saints have slipped deeper into the relegation mire in the Premier League.

They start the weekend four points from safety, having lost four of their last five league matches.

"Our fixtures have been difficult since I've been here, one home game, so it's not been easy," said manager Mark Hughes, whose only win since being appointed in March was against Wigan in the FA Cup.

"Clearly now we need performances and results. We have the potential to win the four games. I have a really good feeling in terms of what I'm hearing from the group when I speak to them, one on one. No one anticipated being in this situation. But they're raring to go."

Sofiane Boufal has been forced to train with Southampton's U23 squad following a training ground bust-up, manager Mark Hughes has confirmed

 

Saints finish the season with trips to Everton and Swansea and then a home game against champions Manchester City.

Bournemouth look to be safe from relegation, despite winning just one of their last nine matches. They are nine points above the relegation zone and drew 1-1 with Saints earlier in the season.

 

Southampton will be without captain Steven Davis and winger Sofiane Boufal.

Midfielder Davis has suffered a recurrence of an Achilles injury and could miss the rest of the season, while Morocco international Boufal has been exiled from the first team by manager Mark Hughes following a bust-up.

Bournemouth midfielder Harry Arter will miss out after sustaining an Achilles injury in training. Full-back Adam Smith remains sidelined with a knee problem.