SAINTS manager Russell Martin is having to get used to a number of last-minute changes to his starting lineups in a summer of uncertainty.

Amid captain James Ward-Prowse’s pending exit to West Ham United, defender Jack Stephens will take on the armband for his new boss.

Saints host Martin’s longest-serving playing club, Norwich City, in the first home match of the Championship season, off the back of an opening day 2-1 win at Sheffield Wednesday.

However, on Tuesday night, Martin made 11 changes for an EFL Cup tie at League Two Gillingham and admitted – after a humiliating 3-1 defeat – a few of those played their way out of his plans.

Here is how we think he will line up for today’s meeting with his former Canaries…

Goalkeeper

Gavin Bazunu is the number one for Martin and this was exampled again by Alex McCarthy’s inclusion in the completely rotated side that was defeated at Priestfield.

Defenders

Kyle Walker-Peters and Ryan Manning excelled at Hillsborough in their inverted full-back roles and will be the starting pair when everybody is fit.

Jan Bednarek and Jack Stephens are equally as certain starters in the centre of defence – meaning Martin has a settled back four that he can depend on.

Daily Echo: Southampton's Kyle Walker-Peters during the pre-season friendly match between Southampton and AZ Alkmaar at St Mary's Stadium. Photo by Stuart Martin.

Midfielders

Will Smallbone will anchor the midfield after a man-of-the-match performance at Hillsborough which saw him have the most touches and completed passes of any Saints player.

Stuart Armstrong could be the direct replacement for skipper James Ward-Prowse, while Martin is a big fan of Charly Alcaraz. The Argentine scored late at Gillingham as a substitute on Tuesday.

Attackers

Nathan Tella was not officially credited with the opener at Wednesday but it was his piece of magic that created the crucial goal just minutes into the campaign.

Samuel Edozie was also really impressive beating Callum Paterson on the night, but Martin could opt for someone with more control and finesse to break down a lower block at home.

Adam Armstrong did not put in his best performance, despite being given the goal after it hit his head, but Martin may choose to pair him with Che Adams in his starting team.

Daily Echo: Southampton's Adam Armstrong during the pre-season friendly match between Southampton and AZ Alkmaar at St Mary's Stadium. Photo by Stuart Martin.

Full predicted team

Bazunu; Walker-Peters, Bednarek, Stephens, Manning; Smallbone, S Armstrong, Alcaraz; Tella, A Armstrong, Adams.