Southampton’s pre-season rolls on following defeat to FC Augsburg

Southampton kicked off the first of two home friendlies in a four day stretch with a 4-0 defeat to FC Augsburg.

Michael Gregoritsch struck twice with two superb goals in the first-half whilst Ja-Cheol Koo and Raphael Framberger each scored for the Bundesliga visitors after the break.

It wasn’t the dream start Mauricio Pellegrino would have in charge of his first match at St Mary’s, but thankfully it is still pre-season.

Charlie Austin managed another 60 minutes on his return from injury, as Southampton made a host of changes to a starting eleven that included Jan Bednarek partnering Maya Yoshida.

Cedric Soares didn’t feature as he returned to training from holiday on Monday whilst Virgil van Dijk’s standoff continued -- talks, however, are reportedly scheduled for later this week.

Southampton hardly threatened on a damp evening on the South Coast after James Ward Prowse saw an early effort smartly saved by Marwin Hitz.

Gregoritsch unleashed a vicious shot from distance, which beat Fraser Forster for pace on 35 minutes.

The Austrian midfielder added to his tally just four minutes later when he perfectly placed a header into the bottom corner from a set piece.

Nathan Redmond looked to pull one back, but he struck the crossbar on the stroke of half-time.

Southampton couldn’t manage a late breakthrough with Sofiane Boufal and Manolo Gabbiadini each squandering a chance nearing full-time.

Southampton has one friendly remaining, which takes place against Sevilla at St Mary’s on Saturday.