MANAGER Russell Martin insisted Sam Amo-Ameyaw and Tyler Dibling have a chance to be part of his squad but admitted it could depend on new signings.
Amo-Ameyaw and Dibling, 18, have been the club's top performers during their opening two matches of pre-season ahead of the 2024/25 Premier League.
Amo-Ameyaw scored a superb solo goal in Wednesday's 3-2 win over Bordeaux, while Dibling set up the other two strikes on the afternoon.
Both youngsters are signed up for long-term contracts with terms until at least 2026 and their futures are securely in Southampton's hands.
They are knocking on the door to be part of Martin's squad this season. Meanwhile, plenty of clubs are looking to sign the pair on loan.
Asked about their futures, Martin told the Daily Echo: "As I said before, it will depend partly on who we bring in.
Tyler Dibling made five appearances for Russell Martin last season (Image: Matt Watson / Southampton FC)
"It will depend on how strong we are in their positions and how well they do in the next four or five weeks before the season starts. That'll be it.
"It really is down to them. It doesn't matter how old you are. I think we've proved that in the four and a half, five years we've been a management team.
"They have a chance and they have to take it," Martin added. "I thought Sam Amo was really excellent on Wednesday. Just the diligence out of possession.
"He's getting better all the time. He scored a goal because of that, good moments from him. We have a lot of promising young guys. They'll only get better.
"Tyler just needs to watch Will Smallbone and what he does to keep improving and get better. We have a lot of guys that played a lot of minutes so I'm pleased."
Amo-Ameyaw started last season as a member of Martin's senior squad and made appearances in the first three Championship matches.
His only start - in the home match against QPR - was his last league appearance, but he did go on to represent Saints in the FA Cup.
Dibling was a surprise inclusion in Southampton's Premier League squad for a visit to Brentford in May 2022 when he was just 16 years old.
He made his league debut against Sheffield Wednesday last season, playing the last few minutes in a comfortable 4-0 win over the Owls.
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