Southampton receive massive injury boost before facing Leicester City

Despite having one of the biggest squads in the Premier League, Southampton haven't had a good squad depth in some key positions. Alongside the departures of several key players towards the end of last season, injuries are one of the biggest reasons for the Saints struggling to find a perfect balance in their starting lineup. In the previous Arsenal match, 28-year-old Scotland international Ross Stewart became the fourth Southampton player, who is currently sidelined due to an injury.

The other three players are goalkeeper Gavin Bazunu, Southampton's record signing Kamaldeen Sulemana and 24-year-old midfielder Will Smallbone. While Bazunu will return to full fitness next year, Sulemana and Smallbone are close to fully recovering from their injury. Speaking before the Leicester City match, manager Russell Martin talked about Sulemana and Smallbone's return, saying,

Southampton receive massive injury boost before facing Leicester City

"I'm excited to have everyone back together for the first time in a couple of weeks. Kamaldeen is fit now to be in the squad and Will Smallbone is back now in the squad, so a couple of positives for us."

- Russell Martin

Although Sulemana isn't highly likely to get more playing time in the next few matches, Smallbone's arrival can bring more athleticism and pace to Southampton's struggling midfield. The 24-year-old was injured in Republic of Ireland's 2-0 defeat to Greece last month, and manager Russell Martin has played Lesley Ugochukwu and Joe Aribo in his absence.

Ugochukwu gave an underwhelming defensive midfield display against Bournemouth and was replaced by Aribo at half-time. Compared to Ugochukwu, Aribo looked much more reliable with his passing and defending ,still, the Saints need a more all-round holding midfielder such as Smallbone to maintain their defensive solidity. Also this lineup allows Flynn Downes and Adam Lallana to constantly provide more key passes towards Archer and Dibling on both flanks.

Hence, Smallbone's return to the starting lineup is a much-needed boost for Russell Martin's side, who need to be at their level best in attack, defence as well as midfield to secure the three points from this match. Southampton fans will expect Smallbone to replicate his incredible Nations League form for Southampton as well, and it remains to be seen whether the Saints will take their first Premier League win in the upcoming eight matchday.