About this Event

It's the first match of the UEFA Europa League group stage, and both teams will be desperate to get off to a strong start.



Saints and Sparta each have serious ambitions of reaching the knockout rounds, but will need to finish in the top two of a tough group if they are to get there.



The onus is perhaps more on Southampton in this game, given they are the home team, and they are sure to have strong backing from the St Mary's crowd.



Claude Puel's side will not just want a victory to boost their European prospects, but also to kick-start their season, as they seek a first win of the campaign.