MANAGER Russell Martin is crossing his fingers that Flynn Downes will be fit for Southampton's trip to Cardiff City.
Saints visit the Welsh side on Saturday hoping to extend their winning run to four games and keep pressure on the teams ahead of them.
Downes suffered a knock in Southampton's 3-0 win over Preston on Tuesday and was replaced by Shea Charles at halftime.
After the win, Martin explained the decision was made on a precautionary basis to avoid risking the West Ham loanee's fitness.
Speaking to the Daily Echo on Friday, Martin said: “He is doing pretty well.
"We have to make a judgement on tomorrow's game to decide whether he starts or whether he comes on.
"We have a really talented pool of players to choose from if we decide that Flynn isn't quite ready.
"He has given himself every chance to be ready. He has been in for treatment and he said that he is feeling quite good.
"We will keep our fingers crossed that he will be available for tomorrow."
Downes was a part of the Swansea squad that achieved the first South Wales derby double in Cardiff under Martin's stewardship.
The 25 year old scored in his last game across the border, helping Saints to a 3-1 win over Swansea in January.
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