Meet the Opposition - Wolves
Faithful, hardcore and full of song!!! These are the guys that really are the backbone of the support at the club. All too often we have been criticised for being too quiet at home games and getting on the players backs when things are not going as we would hope - the hardcore fans who travel the length and breadth of the country however are not so glum...they back the team 100% through thick and thin - which is just as well...we've not had a lot to celebrate over the last 20 years!!!
What are your expectations for the season ahead?
I think the coming season will be one of the hardest in our Championship history. There are a lot of strong teams in the division and everyone feels that they have a shot at the title...it should prove to be interesting come next May.
Where do you think you'll finish in the League this year?
Top!!! Seriously though...I truly believe we have our best chance at success for a long time and I can't see us being outside of the top 6 at the end of the season. Wolves fans expect promotion and nothing short of that will do.
Where do you think Saints will finish in the League this year?
With Harry at the helm and the players that you have retained I feel that Southampton SHOULD finish in the top 6 with Wolves. I would expect that automatic promotion would not be out of the question.
Who are your key players?
Joleon Lescott and Seol. Joleon is a fantastic defender - one of those players who you feel confident in at all times. He has had rotten luck with injuries but a fit Lescott is worth all the other players put together.
Seol was great for us last season. He took a little while to settle but when he did he showed blistering pace and great control, especially down the left flank. He is an excellent crosser of the ball and isn't shy to have a pop at goal!!!
Young player to watch out for?
Again I would say Joleon Lescott. At 23 he is still young enough to exceed his current level of play and I think that we can confidently say that Jo will pull on the white of England at some point in the future.
Which player would you most like to sell?
Henri Camara. As Saints fans will know, our Henri is a thorn in the side of Wolves. He promises a lot...has flair, ability and when he adjusts the sights on his feet can score freely. However, the disloyalty and lack of remorse shown since relegation from the Premiership will live long in the memory of the faithful and the sooner he goes the better.
Which Saints players would you most like on your team?
Brett Ormerod - always rated him and would love to have him in our front line.
(Editor - seems like a fair swap for Camara...)
What's your view of Glenn Hoddle - Messiah or false prophet?
What's your view of Glenn Hoddle - Messiah or false prophet?
He's not the Messiah, he's a very naughty boy!
(Editor - couldn't have put it better myself...)
Seriously, Glenn is guilty of letting his mouth run 10 minutes before his brain at times, but his credentials as a coach and manager are undeniably top class. I truly believe that Wolves were in danger last season, but Glenn bought us back from the brink and one league loss under him was amazing considering!
Which team do you most want to beat this season?
Stoke City - it's a Midlands rivalry thing!
Predicted score?
As for my prediction - boring I know but I think 1-1 is likely...it's really too close to call I feel.
Any other comments?
Good luck to the Saints this season - was gutted for them when they came down and definately believe they belong in the Premiership! Here's to Wolves and Saints finishing 1st and 2nd!
Many thanks, Simon, and a warm welcome to Wolves on Saturday.