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EXCLUSIVE: Martin gives fitness update as two Southampton star players set to be back

Southampton manager Russell Martin has provided a fitness update, confirming that two key players are set to return to action. Following recent injury concerns, the Saints boss shared the positive news that these players are nearing full fitness and could be available for selection soon, boosting the squad ahead of their upcoming matches.

This update offers hope for Southampton as they look to strengthen their team for the next phase of the season.

Southampton duo Kamaldeen Sulemana and Will Smallbone have been declared fit ahead of their clash with Leicester City on Saturday. Ghana winger Kamaldeen has yet to play this season after picking up an injury in a pre-season friendly against Oxford United, while Smallbone has been out since the end of August, missing the recent international break with Ireland.Their return is timely as striker Ross Stewart faces another brief spell on the sidelines after limping off with a calf injury at Arsenal two weeks ago. Manager Russell Martin expressed his excitement at having the squad back together, noting that aside from Stewart, the team is in good shape.

“Kamaldeen and Will Smallbone are both back in the squad, which is a positive,” Martin shared, while acknowledging the frustration of Stewart’s setback. Kamaldeen is still looking for his first goal under Martin’s management, with his only Southampton goals coming on the final day of the 2022/23 season.

Kamaldeen Sulemana managed just three assists in the Championship last season across 948 minutes, all of which came before a December injury setback. Reflecting on how to get the best out of the 22-year-old, who is Southampton’s record signing, manager Russell Martin shared his insights.

Martin explained that getting Kamaldeen back to top form involves “a combination of many things.” He praised Kamaldeen’s progress before his injury last season, noting that the player was in a “really good rhythm” and played a key role in the team. However, after his return from injury, Kamaldeen struggled to regain the same level of performance.

Martin highlighted Kamaldeen’s exceptional attributes, including his athleticism, power, and pace, describing the winger’s ability to do “incredible” things at top speed. He emphasized the importance of finding the best way to use him in the right position and to ensure he feels involved in the game.

Consistency and fitness are key factors for Kamaldeen, with Martin noting the improvement in his training habits since his arrival. Martin stressed the importance of managing him carefully over the next few weeks to keep him in peak physical condition. If successful, Martin believes Kamaldeen can be a real game-changer for Southampton.

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