Manchester City and Southampton are set to face off in the FA Cup semi-final. The match takes place in what is described as perfect conditions.
Cherki’s Role for Man City
Rayan Cherki starts for Manchester City. He has been showcasing some of his best football for the club in recent weeks. This marks Cherki’s 50th appearance for Manchester City in all competitions. He is averaging a goal or assist every 100 minutes for the club, with 11 goals and 15 assists.
Trafford’s Opportunity in Goal
James Trafford starts in goal for Manchester City. He was brought in expecting to be City’s number one. However, a move for Gianluigi Donnarumma scuppered those plans. He has since found himself as City’s second with only cup games on his radar.
Ashley Williams said fair play to James Trafford as he is obviously a really good professional, adding he has stepped up in the cup and could play for a lot of teams.
Southampton’s Unbeaten Run
Southampton are one of the form sides in the football league. They come into this match on a 20-game unbeaten run, winning 16. Tuesday’s 2-2 draw with Bristol City ended a run of eight straight victories. Tonda Eckert’s team twice came from behind to earn a point.
- Only Lincoln City are currently on a longer unbeaten run in the top four tiers of English football.
- Southampton’s 20-game streak is better than any Premier League outfit has managed this season.
- Eckert has made an impact in turning them into promotion contenders since replacing Will Still in November.
City’s Team Selection and the Challenge Ahead
It’s fair to say that Manchester City’s team is not the settled full-strength XI seen in recent weeks. Chances are available for Tijjani Reijnders, Rayan Ait-Nouri and Omar Marmoush to impress. Manchester City come into this as favourites. Southampton are likely to provide a far sterner test than the average underdog.
Manchester City’s record against lower-league teams speaks for itself.
The winner will progress, as Southampton booked their place in the semi-finals with five goals.