Osgood can't lose

Last updated : 12 March 2003 By Christian Kelly

Saints star Peter Osgood undoubtedly had his best years at Chelsea. While he was in Saints '76 cup winning side, he also picked up a winner's medal with Chelsea in 1970. Osgood scored in every round of the competition for Chelsea except the final versus Leeds. That was a 1-1 draw and he scored in the replay.

Osgood became Lawrie McMenemy's record signing at £275 000 in 1974, but he couldn't stop the side from being relegated.

In 1976 Peter was part of the legendary second division Saints team that lifted the FA Cup from Manchester United's grasp.

"I still live in the area and I work at St Mary's stadium on match days," said Peter.

"I remember the buzz that went round the city when we won the Cup in 1976 and I'm getting the same sort of vibe now.

"I was at the Wolves game and was really pleased and excited when Saints won."

Osgood, an admirer of Saints boss Gordon Strachan, spoke highly of the ginger wingers achievements, as the Saints line-up for their first FA Cup semi-final for 17 years.

"He's done a good job, although the whole club has come together, with a new stadium, and a good team."

"Southampton are a team that look after their old players and I was at the quarter-final with Mike Channon and Peter Rodrigues, two of my team mates from that 1976 team.

"It was a really fun day and I'm sure we're in for another in Cardiff in May."

Osgood also thinks that Chelsea could overcome their London rivals and join Saints in Cardiff.

"I think Chelsea might have been guilty of showing Arsenal too much respect in the past, but I'm not sure that's the case any more," said Osgood.

"I think they believe they can beat Arsenal now."

"I was lucky enough to play for two great clubs, and if both Chelsea and Saints get through, I couldn't lose in the final.

"I'm still Chelsea blue through and through, but I love Saints as well and the semi-final draw was the one we wanted.

"It would be a dream final for me if both of my teams got through."