Preview: Southampton vs FC Midtjylland

Southampton will be looking to secure their place in the group stages of the Europa League when they host Danish side FC Midtjylland at St Mary’s on Thursday night.

The Saints cruised through their qualifier against Vitesse Arnhem, winning 5-0 over two legs, but manager Ronald Koeman is expecting a tougher tie this time around.

Despite their fine performances in Europe, the South Coast outfit have struggled domestically, picking up just one point from their opening two Premier League matches, including a 3-0 home defeat to Everton on Saturday.

Defender Steven Caulker is available again after recovering from a sinus infection, while Oriol Romeu could make his full debut after coming on as a half-time substitute against the Toffees.

Sadio Mane, who has been linked with a move to Manchester United, should also start and will be looking to add to the goal he scored in Arnhem in the last round.

Ryan Bertrand, Fraser Forster and Jordy Clasie are all still missing though.

Their visitors are the Danish champions and have started the new campaign in fine form, winning four and drawing one of their first five fixtures as they look to retain their crown.

Boss Jess Thorup is likely to include former Saint Tim Sparv in his starting line-up, while the hosts will have to keep an eye on Pione Sisto, a young exciting winger that has attracted the interest of a number of top European clubs.

League Position: Southampton – 17th (1pt); FC Midtjylland – 1st (13pts)
League Form: Southampton – DL; FC Midtjylland – WD
Key Men: Southampton – Graziano Pelle; FC Midtjylland – Pione Sisto

Shoot says: Southampton 2-1 FC Midtjylland