Wenger expecting a more defensive approach from Southampton

Sep 14, 2012 6:33:00 PM

The 62-year-old feels that the Saints may adapt their game after heartbreaking defeats to Manchester City and United and also praises opposite number Nigel Adkins

Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger believes Southampton's poor start to the season may affect the way they play against the Gunners this weekend.

The Saints suffered heartbreaking defeats against Manchester United and City after leading both matches as well as losing to Wigan.

Wenger feels the way in which Southampton lost those matches may alter their attacking approach in the future starting at the Emirates on Saturday.

"Three games without a win affects the way you approach the game," he told the club’s official website.

"They know they have potential. They will of course try to transform that potential into points, but maybe their approach will be a bit more cautious."

The Frenchman also hailed Saints boss Nigel Adkins and the job he has done at the club guiding them from League One to the Premier League in just two seasons.

Wenger was intrigued how he rose from being the physio at Scunthorpe to become a top-flight manager in just six years.

"He had a very peculiar [route] to get the job, but he has done well," Wenger added. "I had the chance to see him when we played down at Southampton in pre-season.

"He is a very interesting man who wants to get information, and did that in a very convincing way.

"I am impressed with how well he has done and the way he has done it."

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