PRIOR Both former England international Gary Lineker and Saints forward Alan Shearer have supported Southampton to win the Championship playoffs.
Shearer, who began his playing career on the south coast, acknowledged that he hopes the Saints can get back to the Premier League right away.
In the playoff semifinals, Russell Martin’s team will meet West Brom. On Sunday, May 12, they will travel to the Hawthorns on the road.
When asked which team he would prefer to see play in the Premier League next season—Leicester City or Ipswich Town—Shearer named his old team.
“They’ve had a good run and I would think Southampton, but it’s not always that easy,” he remarked in an interview with “The Rest Is Football.”
“The postseason always produces a compelling story. My sincere wish is for Southampton.
“I loved living down there for a few years. They are an excellent club. Southampton (can get promoted), I hope.
Lineker concurred and said, “I also like Southampton.” They’ve returned to some shape at the ideal moment.”
Micah Richards, a former Manchester City defender, disagreed with the two retired attackers and believes Leeds United will triumph on May 26 at Wembley.
“I believe they have underperformed in the last couple of weeks,” he said in closing. After that incredible run, they faded away.
Leeds has the best quality in the attacking areas if they do things correctly, which is why I think that.
“You need to stop running so badly right now. The playoffs are something different; this is a new opportunity.”