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.
Team news
Southampton will be without Jérémy Pied, who is out with a long-term knee injury, while new signing Sofiane Boufal is still not ready to feature.
Sparta Praha have a concern over midfielder Borek Dočkal, who has been absent for the last few weeks with a knee injury, while Martin Frydek is also a doubt.
Southampton’s last five:
• Arsenal (A) L 1-2
• Sunderland (H) D 1-1
• Manchester United (A) L 0-2
• Watford (H) D 0-0
• Athletic Club (H) W 1-0*
Sparta Praha’s last five:
• Mladá Boleslav (H) D 2-2
• Dukla Praha (A) W 2-0
• SønderjyskE (H) W 3-2
• Jablonec (H) W 3-0
• SønderjyskE (A) D 0-0
Top scorers: Nathan Redmond (1), Jay Rodriguez (1)
Former Arsenal midfielder Tomàš Rosicky rejoined Sparta Praha last month, making his debut as a late substitute in last weekend's 2-2 draw with Mladá Boleslav. He might be 35 now, but he still has plenty of ability and could be a threat if he plays.
Top scorer: David Lafata (4)
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