Monday Briefing: January 28th

Saints back in action on Wednesday

It’s another big week ahead in the Premier League for Ralph Hasenhüttl’s side, and it all kicks off on Wednesday, with a home game under the lights against Crystal Palace.

Saints are looking to make it three wins in a row in the top-flight, something they haven’t achieved since the 2015/16 season, and pull further away from the bottom three, ahead of Saturday’s trip to Burnley.

Hasenhüttl will be holding his pre-match press conference at 2pm GMT today, with a live broadcast here on southamptonfc.com.

Why not join us at St Mary’s on Wednesday for the big game too? Click here to book your tickets.

Cédric completes Inter move

Saints defender Cédric completed a switch to Internazionale over the weekend, joining the Italian club on an initial loan with a view to a permanent move in the summer.

The switch, which comes after the emergence of young right-back Yan Valery, as well as fellow Academy graduate Kayne Ramsay, further helps manager Ralph Hasenhüttl’s desire for a leaner squad.

Inter are currently third in Serie A, as they look to secure a Champions League spot next term.

Yoshida in Asian Cup semi-finals

Maya Yoshida is set to captain Japan today as they take on Iran for a place in the Asian Cup final.

The Saints defender led his side in their 1-0 win over Vietnam in the last-16 of the competition, and will be hoping to advance to Friday’s showpiece match later.

Japan’s semi-final, which takes place in the Hazza Bin Zayed Stadium, in Al Ain, is due to kick-off at 2pm GMT.

Under-23s looking to go top

Southampton Under-23s are back in action on Friday night, as they visit Manchester United in Premier League 2.

Radhi Jaïdi’s side are currently second in the Division 2 standings, behind leaders Reading on goal difference.

With the Royals not playing until Sunday, the match against fifth-placed United gives Saints’ youngsters a chance to claim top spot.

Women’s perfect run continues

Marieanne Spacey-Cale's side kept their 100 per cent record alive in the Southern Region Women's Football League Premier Division at the weekend.

Saints visited Ascot United on Sunday afternoon, coming away with a 4-1 win, as they made it eight victories from eight in their league campaign.

Chloe Newton (2), Caitlin Collighan and Ellie Chaffe got the goals, with the side now set to travel to Winchester City Flyers next weekend.

Under-18s bounce back

After the disappointment of their FA Youth Cup exit at Watford, Paul Hardyman's Under-18s were back to their usual winning ways at the weekend, as they beat Fulham 3-1 at Staplewood Campus.

Christian Norton's first-half double and a Dan Bartlett effort just after half-time sealed another three points in the Under-18 Premier League, with Saints now sixth.

Check out the highlights of the game below...