3 reasons why Southampton will win the League Cup final this afternoon

Squad is well-rested

It has been just over two weeks since Southampton last played a competitive game, with their 4-0 win at Sunderland coming all the way back on February 11.

And for a side that played seven times in December and nine times in January, it’s a well-earned rest and one that will freshen them up ahead of today’s final.

In fact, excluding international breaks, it’s the longest the Saints have gone without a game this term, which could work against them given they are used to playing so regularly, but with the amount of games they have played already this season, currently standing at 39, it’s a break they needed.

All those players carrying slight knocks will have had time to rest and recover, and they’ve had ample time to prepare for the game, both physically and mentally.

Compare it to United having played four times since Southampton last kicked a ball, and it’s certainly a huge advantage for the Saints, and one they must take this afternoon.