#9 Southampton vs Middlesbrough: Saints look to put European disappointment behind them
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Claude Puel’s men seemed distracted last weekend as Crystal Palace blanked his side 3-0. The Saints may have had their mind on the Europa League game against Hapoel Be’er Sheva which would have ensured their progress into the round of 32.
Unfortunately, things haven’t worked out for them and now they find themselves out of Europe and are now in line with a tie against a resurgent Middlesbrough side. Puel speaking after the game summed up the disappointment of the exit stating, “Tonight it’s difficult to find a good word. It’s a big disappointment for the club, the fans and the players also.”
Puel though will hope that his side can bounce back from this defeat if his side is to entertain European football at St. Mary’s next campaign. Puel did have words of encouragement for his players as he stated, “We need to come back with a good spirit and it’s a strong challenge now to give a good answer. Many teams are eliminated and come back with a strong spirit. It’s disappointing for the staff and players, we were ambitious for this competition and now our mission is in the Premier League.”
Match Prediction: Southampton 1 v 1 Middlesbrough
