Southampton: Cedric Soares and Jeremy Pied to both have late fitness tests

Southampton boss Mauricio Pellegrino has revealed that the Saints’ two right-backs could both miss this weekend’s clash with Watford.

In the win against Fulham last weekend the Argentine was forced to deploy Jan Bednarek in an unnatural position – he may have to play the Polish international there against against the Hornets.

In his pre-match press conference this lunchtime, the under-fire 46-year-old has announced that a late decision will be made on both players, with Cedric having been missed since coming off against Chelsea at the tail end of last year.

Cedric has previously been ever-present for the Saints before an injury suffered against Manchester City in November – he’s played just 107 minutes of football since.

"“One thing is their medical condition and another is their football condition. We have to analyse tomorrow. But the good news is all of them could be ready.“It is one possibility, obviously Jan Bednarek has been training well. He has been getting better, but he had to play out of position. Jan is a guy that is always focused, but he is really young, he manages the principle well.” – Pellegrino"

The Portuguese international is crucial to any success the Saints may have – his attacking influence on the right side is unprecedented and his link up with James Ward-Prowse on the flank had previously been highly-praised.

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In the 26-year-old’s place, Frenchman Jeremy Pied had occasionally been given the nod, although Mauricio Pellegrino had seemingly preferred the more defensively-orientated Jack Stephens.

With Wesley Hoedt injured for the trip to Fulham however Stephens was forced across to his natural position, something which could potentially happen again this weekend.

Despite a dip in form, Watford still find themselves seven places ahead of Southampton going into the encounter, whilst also knowing they will have the psychological edge after a comfortable 2-0 win in the reverse fixture at St. Mary’s.

Watford’s standout player this season has been Richarlison who caused havoc against the Saints last time out. His runs down the left flank against whoever Mauricio Pellegrino fields. He’ll be hoping that Wesley Hoedt is also able to return at the back, after he proved his worth in a solid run of form in December.