Southampton are gearing up for their most crucial match of the season on Saturday, with Russell Martin leading his squad into a relegation battle against Ipswich Town.
Southampton have yet to secure any Premier League points, while fellow promoted side Ipswich has managed two draws after suffering defeats against Liverpool and Manchester City in their opening games.
Last season, Kieran McKenna got the better of Russell Martin in both Championship meetings, and Martin will be eager for payback in front of the hopeful crowd at St Mary’s.
Despite a 3-0 loss to Manchester United last weekend, there were some encouraging moments for Southampton, especially the performance of 18-year-old Tyler Dibling. However, their inability to convert early chances, including Cameron Archer’s missed penalty, proved costly, and Martin knows they cannot afford such wastefulness against Ipswich.
Southampton injury update for Ipswich match
Martin will have almost a full squad at his disposal as he prepares to face a tough Ipswich side. Goalkeeper Gavin Bazunu is the only confirmed absentee after being left out of Southampton’s Premier League squad due to an Achilles injury from April.
Kamaldeen Sulemana remains a doubt, having missed the season so far after picking up an injury in preseason. Though Martin hinted that Sulemana is close to returning, his involvement remains uncertain, especially after a loan-to-buy move to Ajax fell through due to registration issues with FIFA.
Meanwhile, Ross Stewart made his return from injury, coming off the bench against United and playing again in the midweek Carabao Cup clash with Everton, slowly building his fitness after a series of setbacks.
Ipswich injury news ahead of Southampton match
Ipswich also arrive in good health, with no confirmed absentees. However, four players — Wes Burns, George Hirst, Nathan Broadhead, and Harry Clarke — are in doubt, having been sidelined so far this season. Although they have returned to training, McKenna indicated that their involvement would likely be limited.
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