Southampton manager Claude Puel warns his side ahead of EFL Cup tie with Sunderland

The Black Cats are marooned at the foot of the Premier League table, having collected just two points so far this season.

One of those came against Saints in a disappointing 1-1 draw at St Mary’s earlier in the campaign.

Puel is wary of the way Sunderland battled on that day, and believes that without the pressure of top flight football they could be a threat.

He said: “I will want to take this game with quality and with all possibilities to win this game and to continue in this competition.

“I think it’s important at the moment we play four competitions and to continue this work and to win this game.

“Of course it’s important to consider the possibilities of my players.

“We have many injuries and it’s difficult to turn and to start with a different team.

“Young players cam play also and we will see this as we prepare this game, but it is a difficult game because Sunderland of course think for their championship but it will be free in their mind to prepare this game without pressure.

“It’s important for us to continue this work and play at home and have a good result in the final.

“We will see the possibilities with young players and we can play some players but not for all the team.”

Puel will continue to take the game seriously despite the knowledge that Sunderland boss David Moyes is likely to rest senior players.

Defender John O'Shea, midfielder Steven Pienaar and striker Jermain Defoe are unlikely to start as Moyes attempts to protect some of his key men although Defoe for one will travel with the manager's attacking options limited.

Full-back Patrick van Aanholt is nursing an adductor problem while midfielder Jack Rodwell has a calf strain, but neither has yet been ruled out.

For Saints the game represents a great chance to make the last eight.

The game must be settled this evening, going to extra-time and penalties if needed.

The draw for the quarter-finals takes place after the game.