WITH manager Ralph Hasenhuttl confirming that he has a fully fit squad to select from aside from youngster Will Smallbone, attentions turn to Everton.
Saints travel to Goodison Park on the opening weekend of the 2021-22 Premier League season with high hopes after a tumultuous transfer window.
Skipper James Ward-Prowse was one key man who could have missed out through a knee injury but is confirmed to be in contention.
Debuts could be awarded to a number of summer signings, with left-back Romain Perraud followed by striker Adam Armstrong the most likely.
Here's how we predict Hasenhuttl will line up against Rafa Benitez's Toffees - but tell us what you'd go with in the comments below:
Formation 4-2-2-2
Goalkeeper
Fraser Forster should get the nod over Alex McCarthy, with it looking like the former Celtic stopper will be Ralph's number one over the course of the season.
Defence
Following Jannik Vestergaard’s impending departure to Leicester, the back-four looks as cut and dry as it gets. Kyle Walker-Peters will retain his starting spot over impressive youngster Tino Livramento, while Jan Bednarek, Mohammed Salisu and Romain Perraud will complete the line.
Midfield
James Ward-Prowse will be keen to continue featuring in every single minute for Saints and likely will be restored to the team following injury, partnered by defensive minded Oriol Romeu.
The attacking midfield options present a bit of choice nowadays for Saints, but we think Hasenhuttl will go with Stuart Armstrong and Moussa Djenepo as often has been the case.
Attack
Again, Hasenhuttl has choice for strikers with the introduction of loan signing Armando Broja and continued development of Nathan Tella – who seems to get further and further up the pitch each match. However, we can’t look past an attack of Che Adams and marquee transfer Adam Armstrong.
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