SAINTS are edging closer to having a settled starting XI despite losing their last four games on the trot.

Manager Russell Martin made three changes for Middlesbrough with Mason Holgate, Jan Bednarek and Flynn Downes coming in.

The latter two are likely to retain their place and Holgate could be the only player who drops out despite faltering in attack.

Saints welcome fellow relegated side Leeds United to St Mary’s in matchday nine of the Championship – the visitors are unbeaten in five, with four consecutive clean sheets.

However, Daniel Farke’s men have only three more points and a win here could be huge for Martin and Saints. Here is how we think they will line up…

Goalkeeper

Gavin Bazunu is still searching for his first clean sheet of the season but will retain the gloves for Martin as Leeds come to town.

Daily Echo: Gavin Bazunu is enjoying working under Russell Martin but did not confirm if he has received number

Defenders

Martin gave Holgate a start at Boro but will likely revert to what could become a settled four, with Kyle Walker-Peters and Ryan Manning on the flanks.

Jan Bednarek and Taylor Harwood-Bellis will make up the defence and know they face a stern test to keep the likes of Joel Piroe at bay.

Daily Echo: Southampton manager Russell Martin celebrates with Jan Bednarek at the end of the Sky Bet Championship match at Hillsborough, Sheffield. Picture date: Friday August 4, 2023. PA Photo. See PA story SOCCER Sheff Wed. Photo credit should read: Nick Potts/PA

Midfielders

Martin liked the balance of the midfield three at Riverside and Shea Charles is a shoo-in for the holding midfield role.

Flynn Downes created Southampton’s goal with the press and Martin could go unchanged and keep Will Smallbone in the middle. We think Charly Alcaraz could make his first start of the month. 

Daily Echo: Southampton's Flynn Downes during the Championship match between Southampton and Leicester at St Mary's Stadium. Photo by Stuart Martin.

Attackers

Adam Armstrong has captained the side in all four defeats and now seems undroppable, having scored his fifth of the season. Sam Edozie is also a likely starter. 

Martin has limited options going forward so Scotland internationals Ryan Fraser and Che Adams will fancy their chances. 

Daily Echo: Adam Armstrong's opener meant nothing after a shoddy defensive display

Full predicted team to face Leeds United: 

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