Wolves' Nelson Semedo Expresses Confidence In Premier League Survival Amid Relegation Battle

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Nelson Semedo is confident that Wolves will do everything possible to remain in the Premier League. As they gear up to face St Mary's, currently at the bottom of the table, on Saturday, Wolves are determined to secure their position. Last weekend, they managed a 1-1 draw against Everton after trailing 1-0, marking their first of three matches without Matheus Cunha due to suspension.

The recent draw, combined with losses for Ipswich Town and Leicester City, has placed Wolves six points above the relegation zone. According to Opta's supercomputer, Vitor Pereira's team has only a 5% chance of relegation. In contrast, Ipswich faces a 96.7% probability, Leicester 98.3%, and Southampton 100%. Semedo expressed his belief in their survival chances: "Of course, we believe a lot. We have to show this belief when we step on the pitch."

Semedo emphasised that Wolves have ten more games left and are committed to giving their all to ensure they stay in the Premier League. He stated that hard work and dedication are essential for winning matches and maintaining their league status. "We have to keep giving 200 per cent," he added.

Southampton is battling hard to avoid becoming the worst team in Premier League history. They currently have one point less than Derby County had at this stage in the 2007-08 season when Derby finished with just 11 points.

Saturday's match offers Wolves a significant opportunity to distance themselves from relegation worries. However, Pereira does not view it as a must-win game. He prefers focusing on each game individually rather than carrying the pressure of finals on their shoulders.

Pereira explained his approach: "When we start to speak about finals, I think if you start to carry it on your back, this responsibility is a problem." He believes that any team can win or lose against another in this competitive league.

Players to Watch

Southampton's goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale has conceded an average of 2.4 goals per game this season across 20 appearances. Only Wes Foderingham has a higher average among goalkeepers who played at least 20 times in a full campaign.

For Wolves, Jean Ricner-Bellegarde has thrived since being moved into midfield by Pereira. With Cunha still suspended, Bellegarde's creativity will be crucial for Wolves. Despite starting only 14 of Wolves' 28 games, he has created 21 chances from open play this season.

Match Prediction and History

Wolves have won their last six Premier League encounters with Southampton, marking their longest winning streak against any opponent in top-flight history since facing Burnley between 1974 and 2018. Southampton has lost each of their last eight home games by an aggregate score of 29-5.

Historically, only three teams have lost nine or more consecutive home games within a single English top-flight season: Birmingham City (1985-86), Wolves (2011-12), and Watford (2021-22). After winning two initial games under Pereira in December, Wolves have struggled with only two wins in their last ten matches.

Opta Win Probability

The Opta win probability suggests that Wolves have a better chance of victory at St Mary's with a probability of 45.2%. Southampton stands at a lower chance of winning with 29.1%, while there is a possibility of a draw at 25.8%.

This upcoming match presents an opportunity for Wolves to further secure their Premier League status while Southampton fights desperately against relegation odds.