SAINTS have a golden opportunity to get back to winning ways under new permanent manager Ruben Selles as they fight for a place in the FA Cup quarter-final.

The St Mary’s side will welcome League Two outfit Grimsby Town in the round of 16 on Wednesday, March 1, having reached the semi-final of the EFL Cup last month.

Saints were beaten 1-0 at Leeds United in a relegation six-pointer on Saturday and remain bottom of the Premier League with four points between them and safety.

The FA Cup presents Selles with an opportunity to use his bloated squad and give much-needed gametime to certain players.

We expect the Spaniard to make changes with a visit from Leicester City in the Premier League on Saturday now taking on increased importance in the survival bid.

Here is how we think he could line up…

Goalkeeper

Willy Caballero could make a second appearance of the campaign – and second in the FA Cup after starring in the victory over Crystal Palace – on Wednesday.

Gavin Bazunu had a tough afternoon at Leeds but Selles reassured him of his role as number one goalkeeper, so it makes sense to give him an evening off in the cup.

Defenders

Kyle Walker-Peters has been on the bench in both of Selles’s matches as boss but will likely now return to the starting fold. James Bree is cup tied, meaning Moussa Djenepo could go left.

In central defence, it would make sense to give Duje Caleta-Car a route back into the XI. Mohammed Salisu needs minutes but Lyanco should start if he's not ready. 

Midfielders

Selles may opt to go with a three-man midfield for this one to allow more attacking impetus at home to the lower league outfit. James Ward-Prowse does not usually get rested.

Ibrahima Diallo seems a shoo-in to come in from the start and Charly Alcaraz deserves more playing time than he has been getting. This is a strong midfield.

Attackers

Che Adams is unlikely to be available, so Paul Onuachu could retain his starting place and be given another chance to score his first goal for the club since a deadline day move.

Either side of him could be Samuel Edozie and Adam Armstrong, with this XI also able to double in a 4-2-2-2 in game without personnel changes should Selles deem it appropriate.

Full predicted team:

Daily Echo: