Watford 2-1 Southampton Reaction, Stoke Preview & Transfer Latest | TSP 386

Southampton’s Championship campaign gets off to the worst possible start as Saints suffer a self-inflicted 2-1 defeat away at Watford.

Martin Starke is joined by Steve Grant, Glen de la Cour and Daily Echo Southampton reporter Dan Hargraves to pick through a frustrating afternoon at Vicarage Road. The panel discuss the mistakes which handed Watford their goals, Jack Stephens’ difficult afternoon, Tonda Eckert’s tactical set-up, Southampton’s continued slow starts and why Fin Azaz’s introduction made such a difference.

There’s also a look at the squad following Shea Charles’ departure, with midfield reinforcements now firmly on the agenda, while the panel debate whether Saints also need another centre-back.

Attention then turns to the first Championship game of the season at St Mary’s. Stoke City fan Robin Evans joins the podcast to preview Saturday’s meeting, reflect on Stoke’s own opening-day defeat and give his verdict on new Saints striker Divin Mubama following his loan spell with the Potters last season.

Plus, there’s the latest transfer discussion after Southampton rejected Benfica’s offer for Taylor Harwood-Bellis, while Aaron Ramsdale’s appearance for the U21s raises further questions about where the goalkeeper will be playing once the transfer window closes.

Finally, we make our Southampton vs Stoke predictions and check in on the TSP Prediction League after 161 entries for the opening weekend.

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