Walker-Peters insists it's 'fortunate' Southampton must play top three

Saints must visit each of Leeds United, Leicester City and Ipswich Town - on Monday - before the league table is settled in May.

Russell Martin's side are currently nine points off the automatic promotion places but boast games in hand on those above. 

The fixtures against the top three mean a promotion destiny can still be decided by Southampton - rather than relying on other results. 

Beating all three will put Saints in the driving seat and top performer Walker-Peters believes it is possible. 

"It puts it in our hands almost," the 26 year old told the Daily Echo.

Kyle Walker-Peters has made 34 league appearances this season (Image: PA)

"I think it's fortunate for us that we get to go and play them and show we are better than them.

"We have a chance to go and win those games and I think it could be an advantage for us.

"However, we are not thinking about Ipswich yet, the next game is Middlesbrough and that is just as important.

"We need to win that game tomorrow and hopefully, that will start us on a good run." 

The importance of the run-in is not lost on Walker-Peters, who faces an uncertain future with expected transfer interest in the summer. 

Saints have 10 games in just over a month to determine their league position for the next season without the need for playoffs. 

"It's the same as the whole season though, you go into every game wanting to win," he said. 

Southampton's successful window for me is defined by what did not happen.

Keeping Walker-Peters is the best business possible. Adams too. Overall, don't think the squad is hugely improved.

It didn't need much. My quick and weary-eyed verdict on the month's business.#SaintsFC

— Alfie House (@AlfieHouseEcho) February 2, 2024

"I am looking at these last 10 games as every game being a final. If we win them all, we will get promoted and that's the goal. 

"The manager has definitely been trying to get our fitness up a bit in the international break so he is aware of the physical demands."

Walker-Peters continued: "We are aware of it as a squad and we have a big group of players.

"I am sure the manager will rotate when needed. Everyone in the squad is trusted and everyone will be needed." 

Walker-Peters is an important returnee for Martin, having been ruled out of the last two matches through injury.

Saints managed dramatic wins over Birmingham and Sunderland despite the first league minutes missed by the full-back this season. 

Asked about his fitness, Walker-Peters confirmed: "I feel fine.

"I am glad to be back and I am looking forward to getting back out on the pitch, hopefully we can win these 10 games. 

"I didn't need the rest. I was pretty angry that I got injured, but it's part of football and it happens sometimes, I am back fit now."