THE Canaries' League One encounter with Southampton tomorrow (3pm) is set to bring two of the league's best strike forces up against each other at Carrow Road.

And although City's creative-dynamo Wes Hoolahan hasn't scored in eight games, the Irishman remains happy as long as the Canaries secure three points against the Saints on Saturday.

"As long as I'm playing well and making goals and the team is still winning that's what's most important, so the goals will come and hopefully when they do come I'll get a few.

"I've scored a few times at Carrow Road this season so hopefully tomorrow I'll get one."

His advanced position in City's midfield diamond has led to him notching up 13 goals so far this season, as well as numerous assists - the latest coming against Brighton when his trickery and cut-back helped contribute to Grant Holt's equaliser at the Withdean last Saturday and winning the free-kick from which Gary Doherty headed home the 84th minute winner.

"I've had goals in me," admits Hoolahan. "Playing in the position I have, I get a lot of opportunities to get goals. Playing left-wing you've got more chance to create and you're up and down. This year I've got more time on the ball to have a shot and make things happen."

With teams realising the Irish international's threat he has become increasingly the focus of some close-attention from defenders - most notably Millwall's Jimmy Abdou who man-marked him throughout the Lions' 2-1 victory at The Den.

"It's a bit frustrating but you just get on with it," he said. "Obviously it opens up space for other players to exploit and if it does happen hopefully other players can get in and create space for them.

"Yes it is a compliment, obviously I don't like it! I'd rather have a bit of freedom on the ball."

Hoolahan is expecting an entertaining game against Southampton, with the previous two encounters this season resulting in eight goals in total and the Johnstone's Paint Trophy match ending in sudden-death penalties - The Hampshire side ending 6-5 winners on the night.

"They have a great strike force, Lambert and Lallana and we have a great strike force in Chrissy (Martin) and Holty who are scoring for fun, it will be an entertaining game but hopefully we can get three points."

For the full interview with Wes Hoolahan and a preview with City defender Michael Nelson watch Canaries Player. Not a subscriber? Sign-up now.