Lambert Backed To Fire Saints To League One Title

After tough times at St Mary's, Southampton fans were able to take a great satisfaction from 2009/10. Despite a ten point penalty the team clambered into seventh place in League One and the fans had a trip to Wembley to enjoy, lifting the Johnstone's Paint Trophy.

After New Year, the season had the feel of preparation for a massive promotion push in 2010/11. With the 10 points restored, Saints would have made the play-offs and the squad gained confidence as the season progressed.

Saints chances are helped by Leeds, Norwich and Millwall moving up a division because the sides coming down are not as formidable as a group. And Southampton have Rickie Lambert to call on.

Lambert is installed as favourite to finish top scorer in the division after delivering a strike rate for Southampton of 30 strikes in 45 League games since his arrival from Bristol Rovers. Lee Barnard and David Connolly should be able to offer quality support and Saints also carry a threat from midfield.

Alan Pardew had strengthened defensively by acquiring Frazer Richardson from Charrlton but the new man has suffered injury in a pre-season game. There seems no doubt that Saints will score ernough goals this season and the defence was sound last season.

Rahdi Jaidi is a key figure at the back especially as the team are facing the start of the season with a number of key men struggling to make the opener- Lambert included. The former Bolton and Birmingham defender is the sort of player Pardew can build his defensive effort around.

Southampton 9/4

Sheffield Wed 11/2

Huddersfield Town    8/1

Peterborough   11/1

Charlton 12/1

Swindon Town 14/1

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