Preview

On August 31, the Brentford Community Stadium will host the match of the 3rd round of the English Premier League, in which Brentford will host Southampton. Both clubs will start this match with the aim of rehabilitation after not the most successful performances in the previous rounds.

Brentford
Brentford, led by Thomas Frank, started the season with optimism, despite the defeat from Liverpool (0:2) in the previous round. The team was successfully strengthened in the off-season, which instills confidence in the fans and players. Special attention should be paid to goalkeeper Mark Flekken, who made 11 saves in the first two rounds and proved his reliability in the last line.

In addition to the Premier League, the Bees showed a good result in the English League Cup, beating Colchester away (1:0). This victory gave the team additional confidence before the meeting with Southampton. Keane Lewis-Potter, who scored the decisive goal, showed that he is ready to play a leading role this season.

Southampton
Russell Martin's side have had a difficult start to the season. The Saints have suffered two defeats in their first two Premier League games - against Newcastle and Nottingham Forest - demonstrating a high percentage of possession but having problems in the final stages of attacks. In the match against Nottingham, Southampton lacked creativity, which led to a minimum number of shots on goal.

The Saints' alarming attacking situation may improve somewhat thanks to new players. In the English League Cup, the team won against Cardiff (5:3), where Cameron Archer scored twice, and newcomer Mateus Fernandes scored a goal and an assist. Both players could be key players in the upcoming match against Brentford.

Prediction
With Southampton's attacking issues and Brentford's not always reliable defence, the match promises to be an open and goal-rich affair.  

Where to watch
The match will be broadcast on Setanta Sports.

Suspended and injured
Brentford: Josh Dasilva, Rico Henry, Aaron Hickey, Igor Thiago (injured)
Southampton: Kamaldeen Sulemana, Gavin Bazunu (injured)