SAINTS manager Nathan Jones has launched two separate defences of his five-man defence tactics since Tuesday’s EFL Cup semi-final defeat to Newcastle United.

His side now travels to a Brentford outfit unbeaten in eight games with the Premier League under a renewed focus – and just in time, too, with Saints still bottom of the table.

They are only two points from the safe zone but will want to pick up points fast. By his own admission, the bedding-in period is now over and results must come for Jones.

There is a disconnect between what supporters think looks like Saints’ best team and what Jones thinks. Here is how we reckon he will line up in West London…

Goalkeeper

Gavin Bazunu remains Jones’s number one and that is unlikely to change over the course of the next few weeks.

Daily Echo: Southampton's Gavin Bazunu during the Premier League match between Southampton and Leeds at St Mary's Stadium. Photo by Stuart Martin..

Defenders

Jones threw caution into the wind revealing that Kyle Walker-Peters might not start, after he was substituted in the first-half of the defeat at Newcastle on Tuesday.

That could leave James Bree in full-back, while Duje Caleta-Car is likely to not be in the first XI after playing for the B team on Friday. Lyanco, Mohammed Salisu and Romain Perraud could finish the defence.

Midfielders

Romeo Lavia came off the bench at half-time on Tuesday and is likely to start this one, with Charly Alcaraz and captain James Ward-Prowse ahead of him.

Jones likes Ibrahima Diallo’s off the ball work a great deal and this midfield could leave him a little light defensively, in his opinion.

Daily Echo:

Attackers

This is anyone’s guess but with Mislav Orsic and Moussa Djenepo in the B team, it narrows down the options. Che Adams is likely to lead the line again after scoring on Tuesday.

Samuel Edozie played more minutes than Jones wanted, having to replace Walker-Peters at St James’ Park. He should be in line for another start regardless.

Moi Elyounoussi found himself on the bench in the north-east but could come back in as he offers Jones the chance to play in a four-man and five-man defence.

Full predicted team: 

Daily Echo:

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