Southamton are hosting Hapoel this evening in their bid to progress to the knockout stages of the Europa League.
The Saints know that they will qualify for the next round with a win this evening. Claude Puel’s side are level on points with tonight’s opponents and four ahead of the already eliminated Inter Milan.
Playing on a Thursday night has, without doubt, impacted Southampton’s Premier League campaign. They currently sit in 12th position in the table, ten points adrift of Tottenham in fifth spot. Their best chance of securing European football for next season may well be with success in this competition.
Puel has named a strong side this evening, one that you would certainly expect to get the job done and secure all three points. The one notable inclusion in the Saints’ lineup is 19-year-old Josh Sims, who has made three prior appearances for the club. Tonight will be Sims’ first ever European appearance in his professional career.
Here are how both teams line up this evening:
The teams are in!
Here’s a look at how #SaintsFC line up for tonight’s #UEL clash with Hapoel Be’er Sheva: pic.twitter.com/FcPLdQ26LC
— Southampton FC (@SouthamptonFC) December 8, 2016
Hapoel starting XI: Goresh, Bitton, Leonardo Vitor, Tzedek, Korhut, Radi, Ogu, Hoban, Bar Buzaglo, Sahar, Nwakaeme.