FORMER Saint Carlton Palmer has warned supporters “we can’t overlook” his ex-side for relegation this season, despite its unlikely nature.

Saints are 15th in the Premier League after a run of seven defeats in 10 matches, and are six points clear of the drop zone with two games to go.

However, each of the teams below them engulfed in the relegation battle have games in hand and mathematically could catch Saints if their poor form continues.

Ralph Hasenuttl’s side play Liverpool and Leicester City to end the season, and risk finishing on the 40 points they have already amassed.

Even if that were the case, Leeds would have to pick up seven points from their last three, Burnley would need six, and Everton would need five from four matches.

It means Hasenhuttl’s charges should be safe for another season in the Premier League, but former midfielder Palmer thinks it might not be so secure.

“The one that we can’t overlook is Southampton,” he told GiveMeSport.

“They could get drawn back into it. Their last two games are Liverpool at home and Leicester away.

“If they end up with no points from those two games, they could go down on 40 points.

“It’s a massive game, Liverpool need to win at Southampton after dropping points against Spurs and Leicester away won’t be an easy game.”

Saints welcome Liverpool to St Mary’s on Tuesday, May 17 and could already be safe by then.

Leeds United play Chelsea tonight and need a point to have any chance of catching Saints.

Daily Echo:

A message from the Editor

Thank you for reading this article - we appreciate your support in reading the Daily Echo.

Subscribing to the Echo means you have unrestricted access to the latest news, features and Saints coverage - all with an advertising-light website.

You will also have full access to Saintsplus, your new home for Southampton FC tactical analysis, features and much, much more.

Don't take my word for it - subscribe here to see for yourself.

Follow the latest breaking news in the Southampton area by joining our Facebook group - Southampton News - Breaking News and Incidents

Follow the latest court and crime news on our dedicated Facebook group - Hampshire Court and Crime News