LEEDS United would require a dramatic goal difference swing to catch Saints after their 3-0 defeat to Chelsea, meaning the St Mary’s side should be safe from relegation.
Ralph Hasenhuttl’s charges were hoping to table a first top-half finish in the Premier League since the Austrian’s arrival.
Those hopes fell away with a dismal run, recording just one victory and seven defeats in the last 10 league matches.
As Burnley and Everton below them began to pick up points, it looked as though it may have been a nervy ending to the season.
Saints face Liverpool and Leicester City in their final two. However, Leeds United’s defeat to Chelsea looks to have spared Hasenhuttl’s blushes.
Jesse Marsch’s side remain six points behind with just two games left, and an unassailable goal difference.
They would need to win both of their remaining games versus Brighton and Brentford, hope Saints don't get one point and complete a goal difference swing of at least -14.
With Norwich City and Watford already relegated, it means Saints are set for another season in the Premier League. But it is not an achievement that will be keenly celebrated at the club.
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