Paul Merson finally comes down to true expectation grounds with Southampton | OneFootball

Paul Merson predicted Southampton to lose with their infamous 3-1 scoreline against Aston Villa, a departure from his usual goalless forecasts for the Saints.

For most of the St. Mary's faithful, the recent few days have come quite mentally toiling. A Tottenham humiliation, Ivan Juric's sacking and managerial rumours, it's felt a total chaos for the fans.

In fact, chances are that amidst all this, many supporters would've lost track of this Premier League campaign as well. Especially, now that the club is confirmed to go down the Championship next season.

But hey, whether you realize it or not, the next Saints matchday is right in front. And this time Southampton host Aston Villa, in what will be interim boss Rusk's first fixture post Juric sack.

Well, facing an in-form side Villa at home, sounds like another thrashing coming, right? But here’s the twist. In a week that’s already shocked Saints fans, they receive another one, just a bit pleasant this time.

It's Paul Merson's matchday prediction, which has finally aligned with Saints fans’ expectations.

Writing in his Sportskeeda column, Merson talked of Aston Villa, saying: "Southampton are unlikely to trouble them too much. I'd be amazed if Villa lost this game, easy win in my opinion."

Southampton tipped to build up on Paul Merson's gentle prediction

Confused, where's the surprise, right? Well, it's that unlike the Arsenal icon's routine forecasts, of scoreless Southampton defeats, this time Merson hopes the club to finish it 1-3.

I know, I know, it’s still a loss. But come on, against a Champions League-chasing Villa side? One goal and a bit of dignity? We’ll take it.

Still, are the Saints doomed for a loss? Maybe not. Hopefully, with Simon Rusk back in the role, at least the St. Mary's faithful would have something to watch for in this fixture.