RUSSELL Martin could make changes this evening as Saints get ready for their fourth game in nine days.
A Kyle Walker-Peters’ thunderstrike was the difference when the two teams met at St Mary’s in November.
David Brooks provided two assists from the bench against Huddersfield to help Southampton to a chaotic 5-3 win.
With Che Adams touch-and-go, Brooks could start on the right with Adam Armstrong moved back to striker.
Here is how we predict Southampton will line up this evening.
Goalkeeper and defenders
Gavin Bazunu and Kyle Walker-Peters will continue their streak of starting every league game this season. James Bree is still not available so Ryan Manning should continue at left back.
Martin could also stick with his favourite pairing of Taylor Harwood-Bellis and Jan Bednarek, but we would not be surprised if the Polish international is rested as he is one yellow away from a two-game ban.
Midfielders
With Flynn Downes ruled out through injury, Will Smallbone is best placed to fill in at the number six role.
Joe Rothwell had an impact from the bench and should come into Smallbone’s role if he drops back into holding midfield. Stuart Armstrong will complete the midfield trio.
Forwards
As outlined above, Brooks could be in contention to make his first Southampton start at Ashton Gate.
That would free top goalscorer A Armstrong to return to his more natural role, while Ryan Fraser should flank him on the left.
Full predicted team:
Bazunu; Walker-Peters, Harwood-Bellis, Bednarek, Manning; Smallbone, Rothwell, S Armstrong; Brooks, A Armstrong, Fraser.
