Southampton boss Claude Puel praises Bournemouth philosophy
Friday 16 December 2016 18:39, UK
Southampton boss Claude Puel has praised south coast rivals Bournemouth and expects an intense derby occasion on Sunday.
The Saints head to the Vitality Stadium on Super Sunday, live on Sky Sports 1 HD, with the two clubs level on Premier League points and separated by just one place in the table, with Bournemouth just below Puel's side in 10th.
Eddie Howe's team beat champions Leicester in midweek and Puel praised Bournemouth's players and philosophy and said he is looking forward to the derby clash.
"Most important is the quality of the team, because they have good technical players," he said. "For every position is a good player, and this is very important in the philosophy of this club. Southampton also try to have that.
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"We will play a good team, with good players and a good philosophy. I think it's interesting. I think on Sunday we can do a good game against a good opponent, who will try to play. This is interesting for the fans and for the football.
"We know it's important for the supporters. The two places are close. All this gives a good intensity to the game and a good atmosphere.
"Of course, the result is important for the fans, but also for us. We need to show good concentration."
Matt Targett has joined Charlie Austin in being an anticipated long-term Southampton injury absentee after undergoing surgery on a hamstring problem. He is expected to be sidelined for four months, while Austin faces shoulder surgery.
Puel has reported no further injury concerns ahead of Sunday, with Cedric Soares expected to feature after recovering from illness and goalkeeper Alex McCarthy back in training.
However, Oriel Romeu is sidelined due to a one-match ban after recently collecting his fifth booking of the season.
