Southampton legend, Francis Benali believes the club has more than enough quality to survive in the Premier League, as defeat against Aston Villa would equal their worst-ever start to a season. The Southern Daily Echo reports.
Saints have lost all four of their matches so far, conceding 14 goals against Manchester City, Wigan, Manchester United and Arsenal respectively.
Under Dave Jones, the side lost their opening five fixtures in the 1998/99 season, but still managed to stay up- finishing 17th.
“We were traditionally fairly slow starters. “It’s disappointing when you’re not getting results and early points on the board, but by no means is it the end”, said Benali.
Despite the poor start, the south coast side have put in some positive displays, particularly against City and United- leading 2-1 in both matches before going on to lose.
“I have seen a lot already this season that is very encouraging and they will be more than fine to hold their own in the Premier League”, he added.
But they will need to be at their best on Saturday to beat a reinvigorated Villa side, who secured their first win of the season against Swansea last week.
