Southampton host reigning Premier League champions Manchester City at St Mary’s Stadium on Sunday, in what will be both clubs’ last game of 2018. 

By their own standards, City come into this game in dreadful form – having lost their last two league fixtures. The Saints, meanwhile, have been revitalised by new boss Ralph Hasenhuttl, who could end the year on a high by delivering a shock victory over Pep Guardiola’s side.

On the chalkboard

The Cityzens have lost their last two league games. The first defeat came at the hands of Crystal Palace, which was followed by defeat to Leicester City. On both occasions, Fernandinho was absent from the City squad due to injury. The 49-cap Brazil international may not be available for Sunday’s trip to the south coast either.

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If City are without the 33-year-old holding midfielder then Hasenhuttl ought to set up his side to exploit Fernandinho’s absence. It has already been demonstrated, by the Eagles and the Foxes, that Guardiola has not yet hit upon a system that allows his side to cope defensively without Fernandinho.

For the taking

When in the side, Fernandinho’s defensive discipline and awareness means that he can effectively cover for City’s marauding full-backs. This means that his team aren’t punished by counter-attacks. Without him though, City are vulnerable.

Southampton must be bold. The likes of Nathan Redmond, Shane Long and Mohamed Elyounoussi have the pace to hurt City on the break. Hasenhuttl must urge his team to be relentless and ruthless on the counter-attack, as City could be there for the taking once again if the Saints take the game to them.