Southampton: Five youngsters who could see game time this season

GOLDACH, SWITZERLAND - JULY 15: Nathan Tella from FC Southampton in action during the pre-season friendly match between FC Southampton and St. Gallen at Sportanlage Kellen on July 15, 2017 in Goldach, Switzerland. (Photo by Simon Hausberger/Getty Images)
GOLDACH, SWITZERLAND - JULY 15: Nathan Tella from FC Southampton in action during the pre-season friendly match between FC Southampton and St. Gallen at Sportanlage Kellen on July 15, 2017 in Goldach, Switzerland. (Photo by Simon Hausberger/Getty Images)
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NORTHAMPTON, ENGLAND – NOVEMBER 07: Will Wood of Southampton in action during the Checkatrade Trophy match between Northampton Town and Southampton U23 at Sixfields on November 7, 2017 in Northampton, England. (Photo by Pete Norton/Getty Images)
NORTHAMPTON, ENGLAND – NOVEMBER 07: Will Wood of Southampton in action during the Checkatrade Trophy match between Northampton Town and Southampton U23 at Sixfields on November 7, 2017 in Northampton, England. (Photo by Pete Norton/Getty Images)

Will Wood

Wood is attacking left-back and is learning in the same academy as Luke Shaw and Gareth Bale, who started his career as a full-back with Saints.

He is also capable of playing as a left-sided centre-back, with his strong left foot making him perfect for the role.

Like Alfie Jones, Wood has been given a first-team squad number for this season and this hints at the fact that he may be ready for the step up to a matchday squad soon.

Perhaps a loan deal away to gain first-team experience could be good for the 21-year-old with competition at left-back already strong within the Saints senior squad.