Saints alive after victory over Swansea

Southampton moved to the brink of Premier League safety on Tuesday after Manolo Gabbiadini’s 72nd-minute goal sealed a crucial 1-0 victory over Swansea at the Liberty Stadium.

There is still a small risk that the Saints could finish in the bottom three but they hold a three-point lead over the Swans, whose goal difference is nine inferior.

After the game Southampton’s odds for relegation had eased to a high of 100-1 with bet365.

The same firm had them priced up at just 10-11 for the drop before kick-off in south Wales.

Southampton’s victory was bad news for second-bottom West Brom, whose relegation was confirmed.

Albion return to the second tier after a eight-year stay in the top flight and there is uncertainty over who they will trust to lead their push for promotion next season.

Caretaker boss Darren Moore has done a remarkable job, steering them to three wins and two draws, and is 5-4 with bet365 to get the job on a permanent basis.

Brentford manager Dean Smith is a 3-1 chance while Bristol City’s Lee Johnson can be backed at 8-1.

Hearts forward Steven Naismith is facing a possible two-match ban after being charged with violent conduct by the Scottish FA following a late challenge on Celtic midfielder Scott Brown on Sunday.

No action was taken by referee Bobby Madden during the game at Tynecastle which Celtic won 3-1.

A panel is scheduled to hear the case on Thursday but Hearts manager Craig Levein has indicated that the club would appeal against any retrospective action.

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