Jamie O’Hara issues bold Southampton verdict with Championship play-off prediction

The pair spoke on the Championship’s final day, in which Southampton defeated Leeds United 2-1.

Russell Martin’s team impressed at Elland Road, and the psychological impact of the outcome might be significant if the two clubs meet again in the play-off final at Wembley in three weeks.

It was also a much-needed victory after three straight defeats, allowing the Saints to enter their play-off semi-final against West Brom with confidence.

If Southampton had lost their fourth consecutive game against Leeds, the atmosphere would have been completely different heading into such season-defining fixtures, but as it is, O’Hara was ready to hype up the Saints’ chances.

O’Hara, who previously played for Southampton’s close rivals Portsmouth, began the discussion by referencing Norwich City’s current form.

The Saints dodged the in-form Canaries, while Leeds had to face Daniel Wagner’s side.

O’Hara commented: “I mean, I look at it and go, Norwich’s form actually, I mean, they lost today, Norwich, but their form has actually been half-decent.”

He went on to predict that Martin and his men would win at Wembley, saying, “I would go Southampton.” I just think the football they play against good teams, possession.”

Agbonlahor was somewhat less certain in his appraisal of the situation, saying: “West Brom are a decent team when they are at it, and so are Southampton when they are at it, as they showed today.”

“I believe it’s difficult to call, pal. If I were a betting man, which I am not, I wouldn’t know who to pick.”

With Saturday’s victory over Leeds, the Saints completed a Championship double over the Yorkshire side this season.

Southampton has a solid record against all of their play-off contenders this season, not just Leeds.

The 2-1 victory at Elland Road followed Southampton’s 3-1 home success over Leeds in September, and the St Mary’s team has won both home and away against West Brom this season.

Norwich is the only play-off team Southampton has not beaten this season, although they have not lost either, with the two clubs drawing twice.

The first was an exciting match in the third league game of the season, resulting in a 4-4 draw, while the second saw the honors shared with a 1-1 draw on New Year’s Day.

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