SAINTS manager Russell Martin probably did not expect to have to pick his players up from consecutive heavy defeats already this season.

The St Mary’s side, who have conceded 16 goals in just six Championship matches, have been beaten 5-0 by Sunderland and 4-1 by Leicester City.

Martin has lost key players like Jack Stephens and now Flynn Downes to injury with others working their way back to full fitness.

Luckily for Saints, Friday’s shock hammering will linger for just days with Ipswich Town visiting St Mary’s tonight. Here is how we think Martin could line his team up…

Goalkeeper

Gavin Bazunu had one of his best games in a Saints shirt despite conceding four, making good saves to keep his side in the contest and exhibiting excellent distribution.

Defenders

Kyle Walker-Peters and Ryan Manning will retain their positions as full-backs despite the defence coming under fire.

Martin hopes Polish international Jan Bednarek is back for this one and he could offer an experienced partner to new signing Taylor Harwood Bellis.

Daily Echo:

Midfielders

The likely absence of Flynn Downes could be a way into playing his natural position for Shea Charles, whose presence and physicality have been missed in transition.  

Will Smallbone has not had his best games since returning from injury but could keep his place again with currently elected captain Adam Armstrong in the 10.

Attackers

Sam Edozie has started every game so far this season and should keep that run going despite a half-time substitution on Friday. Ryan Fraser will start on the opposite wing. Kamaldeen Sulemana is available after his suspension was overturned. 

Che Adams is usually in better form in August than he is September but with Ross Stewart unavailable this month the Scot is by far Martin's best option up front. 

Daily Echo:

Full predicted XI:

Bazunu; Walker-Peters, Bednarek, Harwood-Bellis, Manning; Charles, Smallbone, A Armstrong; Fraser, Edozie, Adams.