2. There's Reasons To Be Cheerful For Winless Southampton
In any other seasons, four games without a win might be seen as a harbinger of doom for Mauricio Pochettino. North of St. Mary's, Steve Clarke's debatably undeserved sacking after a pointless run of four would showcase the perils of a side taking their foot off the gas during the festive period. Yet the Saints are not West Brom, and the travelling side's fans certainly had reasons to be cheerful. Simply put, despite their barren run Southampton don't look like a side resigned or defeated. Everything they did on Saturday was rife with that vital mix of verve and effort there were times when they were pinned back in their own half and defended stoutly, yet if the Jay Rodriguez one-two incisive breakaway proved anything, it's that there's always creativity left in the tank if any team let off. So despite the worrying run and to be honest, after such an impressive start a lull was only to be expected Saints fans are and should remain optimistic. A shell-shocked Tottenham are up next for Pochettino's men, and I wouldn't bet against them taking something from the beleaguered North London side.
Durham University graduate and qualified sports journalist. Very good at sitting down and watching things. Can multi-task this with playing computer games. Football Manager addict who has taken Shrewsbury Town to the summit of the Premier League.
You can follow me at @Ed_OwenUK, if you like ramblings about Newcastle United and A Place in the Sun. If you don't, I don't know what I can do for you.
