The Saints have been on a roll lately. Yesterday, they defeated Birmingham City 3-1 at St Mary’s, propelling them up the Championship table and into fourth place.
It’s a far cry from their early season form, where they struggled to adapt to life in the second tier. After winning three of their opening four games, the former Premier League side then lost four on the bounce, conceding 12 goals. This put Martin under pressure, but they have since recovered and are unbeaten in their last six,
Although they lost a number of first team stars during the summer transfer window – including Romeo Lavia, James Ward-Prowse, Nathan Tella and Tino Livramento – they still possess a squad capable of challenging for promotion. In return, £10 million was shelled out on Sunderland striker Ross Stewart, although the Scottish international has been sidelined since picking up an Achilles tendon injury in January.
It looks as if the 27-year-old is nearing a return to action though, with Martin confirming that he could make his debut before the next international break. Speaking after yesterday’s win, via Hampshire Live, the 37-year-old said;
“He’s really close. If it’s not next week, hopefully, it will be the West Brom game.”
Stewart is not the only attacker currently on the injury table. Che Adams picked up a knock in the 2-2 draw with Preston North End last week and missed yesterday’s victory. However, the former Birmingham City star is not expected to miss too much action;
“I don’t think it’s going to be a long one, we’re hoping to have him back for next week but if not, it should be the week after.”
Southampton travel to managerless Millwall next weekend before hosting West Bromwich Albion before Championship football takes a two week break.
One of the favourites to win the Championship before the start of the season, the return of Adams and the arrival of Stewart will only bolster an already Premier League-quality squad. However, they are 15 points behind runaway leaders Leicester City and the title looks out of reach.
Even though they are now 10 points behind Ipswich Town in second place, they will aim for at least second place; a play-off spot is the very least they should hope for.
