Southampton vs Man City: Wanyama excited but nervous to play against 'role model' Toure

Southampton's Victor Wanyama braced for "biggest test" against Manchester City and hero Yaya Toure

Victor Wanyama admits Southampton face their 'biggest test' when he comes up against Manchester City idol Yaya Toure on Sunday.

Midfield powerhouse Toure is set to return to the City starting XI after missing the mid-week Champions League win over Bayern Munich through suspension.

That could mean a head to head contest with Kenya international Wanyama, who said: "It's a game I'm looking forward to because Yaya Toure will be playing and he's someone I look up to.

"He was one of my role models so it'll be a nice thing coming face to face with him. It is one of the biggest tests we could have."

Saints have been the Premier League's surprise package after finding themselves in second place in the table - ahead of champions City - despite selling £97m worth of players.

And Wanyama admits even he is stunned at the start Ronald Koeman has made to life at St Mary's after a 'shocking' summer.

The former Celtic ace said: "I didn't think it would be like this as it was shocking to see so many players leave the club. But then as the players came in over the summer I knew we could do better. If we can improve from last season's position that will be great.

"As players, we know there is talk about us and we love the challenge. Anything is possible, I suppose."