Expect Southampton to line up in their usual 4-4-2, a shape that's served them well all season. The predicted XI from the brief — Peretz in goal, a back four of Bree, Wood, Stephens, and Manning, with Downes and Matsuki in the middle — gives them a solid base. Fellows, Azaz, and Scienza will provide the width and creativity, while Larin leads the line with real presence. That double pivot is key: Downes breaks up play, Matsuki knits it together, and the wide men stretch a West Ham defence that's been leaking goals.

West Ham, expected in a 4-2-3-1, will try to control the tempo through their own double pivot. But here's the thing — their recent form suggests they're not winning the midfield dogfight. The Hammers have quality in the final third, but if they can't get the ball through the lines, that attacking threat evaporates. Southampton's 4-4-2 is designed to compress the middle and force West Ham wide, where their crossing game is less effective. At St Mary's, with the crowd behind them, the Saints will press high and look to turn West Ham over in dangerous areas. This is a classic cup tie where the lower-ranked side's shape can neutralise the favourites' talent.