Southampton boss Mauricio Pochettino is expecting a ding-dong battle with Sunderland's Paolo di Canio.

Pochettino is expecting a feisty touchline battle with his Sunderland counterpart.

Former Argentina hardman Poch said: "The game will be intense and both teams are playing for more than just three points.

"We know we need to compete very well. The atmosphere will be charged and we're going to face a very physical side following the arrival of Di Canio.

"Paolo has transmitted a strong character. They play compact and are close together. We both have that fighting spirit but I'm sure the technical areas will be big enough for both of us.

"Everybody is going to stay in their own technical area.

"I'm sure he's a nice guy and I look forward to meeting him."