With the international break now over, the team is gearing up to host Manchester United at St Mary’s Stadium.
Ahead of this crucial match, Southampton’s manager, Russell Martin, has acknowledged that changes within the squad are “inevitable.”
He expressed the challenging position he finds himself in, balancing his loyalty to the players who played a significant role in earning promotion with the need to consider current performance levels.
Martin explained that while he has deep respect and gratitude for the players who helped the team ascend to the Premier League, it is also essential to evaluate their present form and how they are performing now.
He noted that with several new, highly talented players having joined the squad, there is a period of adjustment required for them to integrate effectively into the team.
He further elaborated that the influx of new talent necessitates making some changes and giving different players opportunities to prove themselves.
Martin emphasized that it is crucial for the team to find the right balance and for new signings to settle in, indicating that alterations to the lineup are forthcoming and that players must seize their chances when they arise.