8 Big Threats To Southampton's Challenge For The Top 4

2. Fewer Distractions For Rivals As They Are Eliminated From Europe

One of the reasons why Southampton have had a major advantage over the likes of Arsenal, Tottenham and Liverpool is that their whole focus is on their Premier League campaign, with no other competitions to distract them. Their rivals, however, all are having to fight on at least two fronts, both in Europe and at home. The negative effects of a Thursday night Europa League campaign on Sunday afternoon Premier League matches has been widely discussed and you need only look at Tottenham's struggles against West Ham this weekend to see the truth in this. As long as Arsenal, Liverpool and Spurs continue in Europe, Saints will keep this advantage. Both Spurs and Liverpool will travel away in their tricky Europa League second legs this Thursday and will do well to return with victory. Tottenham could only manage a draw at home to Fiorentina, while a penalty allowed Liverpool to scrape a 1-0 win over Besiktas. Arsenal, for their part, have a tricky Champions League clash with Monaco, who have France's meanest defence, on Wednesday. As soon as all three are eliminated from Europe, their form in the league is likely to improve and with it a greater challenge to Southampton's top four position.