Southampton wary as Stoke close in on George Hirst before St Mary’s clash | OneFootball

Southampton aim to lift the mood at St Mary’s on Saturday, seeking a response after a 2-1 defeat at Watford and with a four-point deduction already biting.

Stoke visit after losing at home to Swansea. According to Sainstmarching.com, the Potters are closing in on Ipswich striker George Hirst in a deal that could rise to £10m, and the move might be hurried so he can feature.

Hirst, formerly on Portsmouth’s books, has 28 Championship goal contributions, yet he has not scored against Southampton in five attempts.

Eckert will back his free-flowing side, with Finn Azaz and Flynn Downes on target in last season’s 2-0 win at Stoke. Cyle Larin also arrives in form, with nine goals across his last 11 Championship starts.

Lewis Dobbin scored against Stoke in 2024/25 while at Norwich and is unbeaten in three meetings against the Staffordshire club. Defensive errors must be cut out, with Southampton needing composure at the back. With Stoke winning only five league matches since Christmas Day, both teams are desperate to kick-start their seasons.

Source: Sainstmarching.com

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