Three reasons Southampton is a must win game for Tottenham Hotspur

Reason 2: Spurs seek a bit of revenge

A James Ward-Prowse beauty and a couple of questionable calls left Tottenham with only one point against a 10-man Saints team at St. Mary’s in late December. If Tottenham wants to make the top four, dropping points against bottom half clubs cannot happen, especially at home.

That day Spurs were dominant, taking more than 20 shots, with more than 10 on target. Tottenham had more than 65% of the possession and completed more than 80% of their passes. The only place Tottenham did not dominate Southampton was on the scoreboard, which is ultimately the only place that matters.

After feeling hard done by from that last outing down on the south coast, Spurs likely have payback on their mind, which doesn’t bode well for Southampton.

Reason 3: Spurs need all the momentum they can get

Despite going 10 unbeaten since Antonio Conte’s arrival and only losing one time in the league since November, Tottenham is still just seventh in the league table. Sure, there are games in hand but nothing can be taken for granted.

A difficult schedule is upcoming, which is the third reason Tottenham needs to beat Southampton. Spurs need some momentum for the road ahead.

After the Saints, Spurs host Wolves and then play away to Manchester City, Burnley and Leeds. That is four games in 14 days, which includes three difficult and successive road trips. How that Burnley match has been scheduled gives us a real indicator of what we can expect with the other make-up games. No scheduling favours forthcoming.

With a fledgling bid for the top four, a little revenge, and a need to get rolling all on their side, Spurs have no shortage of reasons to beat Southampton.