Southampton’s anticipated lineup for the FA Cup clash against Walsall reveals Manager Russell Martin’s strategic approach to balance player fatigue and readiness for the upcoming challenges.
The Saints are set to face Walsall, their League Two opponents, in the third round at St Mary’s. Reflecting on a previous defeat against Gillingham in August, which resulted in significant changes in the squad, Martin expresses the need for improvement and hints at squad rotation.
With an impressive run of 10 points in four intense Championship games over ten days, the manager sees an opportunity for players heavily involved to recharge before a potentially historic encounter with Sheffield Wednesday. The predicted lineup suggests changes in key positions, showcasing the depth of the squad.
In goal, Gavin Bazunu, a consistent presence in league games, is expected to make way for new number two Joe Lumley, who will make his club debut. The defensive lineup includes Mason Holgate providing respite to Kyle Walker-Peters, and captain Jack Stephens moving into the center-back position. Jan Bednarek’s illness could pave the way for Taylor Harwood-Bellis, accompanied by academy prospect Jayden Meghoma.
Midfield adjustments involve Shea Charles returning to the starting lineup, providing Flynn Downes with rest, and Charly Alcaraz potentially partnering with Tyler Dibling in an exciting midfield combination. The attacking front sees Sekou Mara, who has been featuring as a substitute, getting a full opportunity, alongside super sub Ryan Fraser and young talent Sam Amo-Ameyaw making a comeback since August.
The predicted lineup reads: Lumley; Holgate, Stephens, Harwood-Bellis, Meghoma; Charles, Alcaraz, Dibling; Amo-Ameyaw, Fraser, Mara.
On the other side of the pitch, Walsall’s David Okagbue shares his unique football journey. Unlike his friend Evan Ferguson, who experienced an early breakthrough with Brighton and Ireland, Okagbue’s path to league football has been gradual and filled with challenges. At 20, he is relishing his first taste of league football after loan spells in the non-league scene in England.
Okagbue acknowledges the differences in his journey compared to Ferguson’s but emphasizes his familiarity with overcoming challenges. The Walsall defender looks forward to the FA Cup tie against Southampton as an opportunity to showcase his skills and potentially make an impact on a bigger stage. Out of contract with Stoke in the summer, Okagbue sees this cup run as a chance to prove his worth and attract potential suitors for a new deal or a move to another club.
Despite facing setbacks in his schoolboy career, including being overlooked for DDSL and Ireland squads, Okagbue’s perseverance led him to a breakthrough with Stoke. The challenges of moving abroad during the pandemic and being away from family tested his mental resilience, but with the support of his family, he remained determined to pursue his football dreams.
Okagbue concludes by expressing his ambitions, acknowledging that he has a long way to go but remains hopeful about playing in the Premier League in the future. The FA Cup tie against Southampton becomes not only a platform to showcase his skills but also a stepping stone in his ongoing journey to fulfill his aspirations in professional football.
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