SAINTS will be looking to extend their unbeaten Championship run to five games when they take on Preston North End this evening.

Ryan Lowe's side sat fourth in the table heading into game week 13, one point above Southampton, but are without a win in five games.

Southampton manager Russell Martin has explained that changes are to be expected for the clash as Deepdale. 

One enforced change will be Ryan Manning, who earned a one-game suspension on Saturday for accumulating five yellow cards.

Here is how we think they will line up for this evening's meeting with The Lilywhites.

Goalkeeper

Gavin Bazunu has started every Championship game under Russell Martin. He produced some important saves against Hull City and will retain his spot between the sticks.

Defenders

Southampton's centre back pairing will continue to pick itself until captain Jack Stephens returns to full fitness as Jan Bednarek and Taylor Harwood-Bellis are expected to keep their place.

Daily Echo:

With Manning suspended, Martin could shift Kyle Walker-Peters to left back and bring Mason Holgate in at right back, as he did in the first half against Middlesbrough.

Midfielders

Flynn Downes has been a crucial component in Southampton's midfield as they've mounted a four-game unbeaten run and should continue to do that against Preston.

We predict he will be partnered by Will Smallbone and Ryan Fraser, who deserves to start after scoring the late winner against Hull City.

Daily Echo: Ryan Fraser's first Saints goal secured three points at Hull

The Scot was introduced in a less familiar number eight role, rather than out wide. It's something he has been working on in training because Martin views him as flexible.

Attackers

Adam Armstrong has started every league game so far this season and is unlikely to lose his place up front.

On the left, Kamaldeen Sulemana could keep his spot in the starting line up given Fraser's drop into midfield.

Charly Alcaraz had a finite amount of time to recover from Argentina duty, so a second game in a week could come too soon. If he does drop to the bench, Che Adams should lead the line.

Daily Echo: Southmpton drew 1-1 with Rotherham

Full predicted team:

Bazunu; Holgate, Harwood-Bellis, Bednarek, Walker-Peters; Downes, Smallbone, Fraser; A Armstrong, Kamaldeen, Adams.