Southampton FC predicted team lineup to face Coventry City

His side drew 1-1 with Watford last time out but were without midfield anchor Flynn Downes, while Charly Alcaraz was substituted at half-time. 

Coventry, managed by Mark Robins, have won three of their last three and present another test for Martin's charges, who are unbeaten in 12.

In the middle of another three-game week in which Saints are now targeting seven points, here is how we think Martin could set up his XI... 

Goalkeeper/Defenders

It is unlikely Martin makes any changes to his back five, with Gavin Bazunu having an excellent game before Rhys Healey's equaliser on Saturday.

Kyle Walker-Peters, Taylor Harwood-Bellis, Jan Bednarek and Ryan Manning will all keep their places for the visit to the Midlands. 

Gavin Bazunu came close to recording three consecutive clean sheets in a row for the first time at Saints (Image: PA)

Midfielders 

Flynn Downes returning to the base of the midfield will offer Saints an experienced engine to get back to winning ways.

Martin was impressed by the performance of Joe Aribo but it could be Will Smallbone back into the side, with Stuart Armstrong the principal creator. 

The return of Flynn Downes will be a welcome boost to the midfield (Image: Stuart Martin)

Attackers 

Adam Armstrong is the only guaranteed starter of the front three and he could play on the right, with Ryan Fraser back in on the left. 

That would leave Che Adams to play through the middle but the Scottish international will be rested for at least one of Coventry or Blackburn Rovers. 

Che Adams scored his first goal since August last time out at Vicarage Road (Image: PA)

Full predicted team

4-3-3: Bazunu; Walker-Peters, Harwood-Bellis, Bednarek, Manning; Downes, Smallbone, S Armstrong; A Armstrong (C), Fraser, Adams.