Statistical Betting Preview: Southampton vs Manchester City

Following their impressive start to the campaign, Wednesday’s home defeat to Aston Villa came as a shock to Southampton’s system. They host free-scoring Manchester City, who will be looking to close the gap on league leaders Arsenal.

Jay Rodriguez scored Southampton’s first goal on Wednesday, guiding in Nathaniel Clyne’s cross. He was a thorn in Villa’s side all evening, registering a total of 6 efforts – the second most in the league.

Pochettino tactically replaced James Ward-Prowse with Dani Osvaldo 38 minutes into Wednesday’s game, but looking at the EA SPORTS Player Performance Index, Ward-Prowse may have considered himself unlucky to have been the man sacrificed. Ward-Prowse completed a pass at an incredible rate of a pass every 1.2 minutes.

His passing, however, was overshadowed by fellow midfielder Steven Davis. Davis completed a phenomenal 82 passes in Aston Villa’s half on Wednesday, staking his claim for a regular starting berth in the team. Davis is 27/1 to score the first goal on Saturday with 888sport.com

By examining the EA SPORTS Player Performance Index, it is clear to see why Roy Hodgson decided to call upon Southampton trio Rickie Lambert, Adam Lallana and Jay Rodriguez. The three players have been instrumental in Saints’ success this term, and have registered 8,6, and 6 goalscoring contributions respectively (based on goals and assists).

Sergio Aguero was on the scoresheet again for Manchester City as they beat West Brom in a classic encounter at the Hawthorns. 

Manuel Pellegrini has had something of a selection headache this season when it’s come to the left back spot. In Gael Clichy and Aleksander Kolarov, the Chilean has two quality full backs at his disposal, and each with their own unique traits – Kolarov’s key attribute is his offensive ability, whereas Gael Clichy’s strength is his defence. On Wednesday, Pellegrini opted for the more offensive Kolarov, and he was certainly rewarded with a scintillating display, as Kolarov laid on two goals for the Citizens.

Samir Nasri has suffered something of a rejuvenation under Manuel Pellegrini this season, something that Yaya Toure claims is down to the increased freedom that is given to the Frenchman. Nasri has always had a fantastic eye for a pass, and this ability was on show on Wednesday as he completed a pass in the opposition half at an impressive rate of a pass every 3.1 minutes.

In total, Nasri has completed 485 passes in the opposition half this term, which is the fifth most in the league. This impressive figure, however, is not enough to put him at the top of the Manchester City table as Yaya Toure has completed 583. This is more than any other player in the league. Nasri is an industry best 12/1 with 888sport.com to score the first goal on Saturday.

Matija Nastasic has made a considerable impression since his arrival at the Etihad a year or so ago, showing a maturity that is far beyond his 20 years. His awareness and ability to read the game is evident in his tackle win percentage – with the EA SPORTS Player Performance Index highlighting that he has won an impressive 85% of his challenges.