MANAGER Russell Martin has given a clean bill of health on Southampton's fitness doubts ahead of facing Middlesbrough on Friday.

Ross Stewart and Juan Larios remain out with long-term injuries but have returned to the grass for the next step of their recovery.

However, Kyle Walker-Peters and Ryan Fraser have been passed fit having been out for the games just before the international break.  

Speaking ahead of welcoming Michael Carrick's Boro to St Mary's, Martin insisted the squad is in a good position ahead of their final 10 games.

He said: “Everyone is in a good place. Wee Man and Kyle have looked like they’ve never been away. They are now available for the run-in, which is fantastic.

READ MORE: Every word Saints boss Martin said ahead of Middlesbrough

"Big Ross Stewart is back on the grass doing light work and will slowly be reintegrated back into the group.

“As I’ve said before, we shouldn’t expect too much from him. It’s great to have him back in amongst things.”

David Brooks was forced off through illness in Wales' Euro 2024 playoff final defeat against Poland on Tuesday evening.

Jan Bednarek also had a bout of illness while away with Poland, which contributed to him being withdrawn with 10 minutes left in Cardiff.

Daily Echo: David Brooks was withdraw having come on for Wales against PolandDavid Brooks was withdraw having come on for Wales against Poland (Image: PA)

Both are available for tomorrow's game - which is Southampton's first fixture in 20 days - having been assessed.

“Janny took a kick in the first game for Poland before the Wales game. He managed to get through the game as good as he could," Martin continued.

“He also felt a bit of a virus, the same as Brooksy. They have both been assessed yesterday and look reasonably good.

“We have to make sure we are completely right, but they are both available for tomorrow. They will both be involved. 

“I think Brooksy feels he could have played on a bit, but also understands that he wasn’t feeling at his best. He has been ill for three or four days in bed.

“Luckily for us, both are ready to be involved tomorrow. Rhys (Owen, head of conditioning) was at the game and text us to say they are both off. Thankfully it’s positive news."