MANAGER Russell Martin insisted injured Flynn Downes and Che Adams are making good progress - but refused to confirm if they would be available to face West Brom.

The Saints pair were absent from Tuesday's 3-1 Championship defeat at Bristol City - Southampton's first loss in 26 matches. 

Martin's side will need to regroup quickly for the trip to West Brom, who are fifth in the table and have won their last five league games at The Hawthorns. 

However, they could be without both Downes and Adams again - although Martin is hopeful they will make the squad. 

Speaking ahead of their coach journey on Thursday afternoon, Martin said: "Both will be very close.

"Whether or not they will be involved, we will have to wait and see. They are both recovering nicely so we hope they will be involved.

"If not, they will not be very far away at all," he added. 

Daily Echo: Flynn Downes went down with injury in the first period of the 5-3 win over Huddersfield TownFlynn Downes went down with injury in the first period of the 5-3 win over Huddersfield Town (Image: Stuart Martin)

Previewing the test of West Brom, Martin continued: "Every away game is a tough challenge in this league and they are great at home.

"They have only lost four games since Carlos Corberan has been in charge. He is a very good coach and I have a lot of respect for him.

"They are a good team full of men, physical and powerful. They are well organised and will make it difficult.

"We have to be the team we want to be and we have a chance to show we are together.

"I am excited about what the guys can put on the pitch and it's a brilliant game for us to make sure we bounce back.

"Wednesday was about using everything we can to recover and the guys who didn't play trained very well. 

"The rest of the guys got back on the pitch today and we have tried to give them the most information from Tuesday relevant to Saturday as we can.

"I have really enjoyed the feeling among the players though, there has been no hangover and everyone is still smiling.

"There was still some frustration on Wednesday but today it feels like everyone has moved on and we are ready."