SAINTS manager Russell Martin addressed defender Taylor Harwood-Bellis’ absence and disclosed a new injury worry for forward Che Adams.
Martin praised Southampton’s fortitude following a last-gasp comeback. Ched Evans’ own goal earned them a 2-2 tie at Preston.
Preston were on pace for victory after goals from Milutin Osmajic and Brad Potts in three second-half minutes, before Evans turned a 96th-minute corner into his own net while under pressure from Saints goalkeeper Gavin Bazunu.
Martin was happy with Southampton’s effort, despite the need for a late equalizer after Kyle Walker-Peters put them ahead in the first half.
Harwood-Bellis missed the game due to a hamstring injury sustained during the international break, while Adams was replaced at halftime with Saints leading.
Martin revealed after the game, “Taylor couldn’t travel because he had an injury before, but we hope to have him back on Saturday.”
“We knew on Saturday because it was so close.” His mentality meant he played when others might not have, I believe.
“He has a warrior’s mentality.” It was terrible to lose him, and we adjusted the team slightly to capitalize on our strengths.
“Mason (Holgate) has grown into the game, and Shea (Charles) had to come in, and Flynn had to leave with a migraine, so it’s a little chaotic.”
“That is why we have a squad with depth and some people really took the opportunity, some people will be frustrated – but the subs had a big impact again.”
“He’s picked up an injury, and it’s frustrating,” Martin said of Adams. It’s quite frustrating for both him and us.
“This is the issue with being away on international duty and having a different routine; it’s the same with Carlos (Alcaraz) and Stuey (Armstrong).”
“We don’t make decisions without talking to them and involving them, and I think it was the right thing to start them from the bench for 60 or 70 minutes.”
“That 20-minute period will cause people to reconsider the changes, but that is why we have a multidisciplinary team that includes medical and sports science.”
“We all sit around a table and have an honest discussion and then the decision is made with the players understanding why.
“Sometimes they agree and sometimes they don’t, but we have a chance this weekend to make it a top week overall.”
Saints host Wayne Rooney’s Birmingham City at St Mary’s up next on Saturday, October 28. The St Mary’s side are unbeaten in five in the league.
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