Southampton FC predicted team lineup vs Preston North End

All three of Leicester City, Leeds United and Ipswich Town won their matches and piled pressure on Russell Martin and his charges.

Saints will be eight points off the automatic promotion places with just 10 games to go if they fail to beat Preston. 

The two teams drew 2-2 at Deepdale back in October - a result Martin believes has been massive for the club's season. 

Here is how we think he will line up this time around... 

Goalkeeper 

Gavin Bazunu has conceded seven goals in his last three league matches and will be looking to correct that with a strong performance.

Gavin Bazunu

Defenders

Kyle Walker-Peters is set to miss out through injury so Taylor Harwood-Bellis could stay on the right with Ryan Manning on the left.

That would leave Jack Stephens to keep his natural position and partner a recently frustrated Jan Bednarek.

Jan Bednarek (Image: PA)

Midfielders

Flynn Downes made 85 minutes on his return and is ready to anchor the midfield once again, while Will Smallbone will play in the eight. 

With three games in a week, Stuart Armstrong could be rested to reward Joe Aribo with a start after his late winner at St Andrew's.

Will Smallbone (Image: PA)

Attackers

Martin need not make any changes to his front line with Adam Armstrong absolutely nailed to keep his place.

David Brooks and Che Adams both scored on Saturday and should start again on the right and through the middle respectively. 

Adam Armstrong (Image: PA)

Full predicted team lineup

Saints: Bazunu; Harwood-Bellis, Stephens, Bednarek, Manning; Downes, Smallbone, Aribo; Brooks, A Armstrong, Adams.