Southampton’s challenging Premier League return has taken another hit ahead of their Monday clash against Bournemouth, with Will Smallbone ruled out due to injury.
The Saints have struggled in their first five games back in the top flight, earning just one point. A late equalizer against Ipswich Town on Saturday extended their winless streak. With tough upcoming matches against Arsenal and Manchester City, a victory against Bournemouth, who have had a solid start with five wins, is crucial. However, Southampton’s hopes may be dampened as Smallbone remains sidelined with a hamstring injury he sustained last month.
Will Smallbone Out For Bournemouth Clash
The Saints will be without their homegrown midfielder
Will Smallbone sustained his injury in September, with his last appearance for Southampton coming in their 3-1 defeat to Brentford in late August, where he was substituted at half-time for Mateus Fernandes.
Initially, it was expected that the Republic of Ireland international would return by the end of the month, possibly in time for the Bournemouth clash. However, ahead of the game, Southampton boss Russell Martin confirmed that Smallbone remains sidelined due to his hamstring injury and will miss the south coast derby. Martin stated:
“[Will] is still out for another week or two. Maybe after the international break or possibly for the Arsenal game, but not this week.”
The extended recovery period could significantly impact Southampton’s results, not only against Andoni Iraola’s Bournemouth but also in the upcoming fixture against Arsenal. Smallbone, described as an “absolute star” by his manager, may also miss the trip to North London early next month.
Smallbone Return Will be Crucial For Southampton
The midfielder is key to how Russell Martin plays
Will Smallbone featured in Southampton’s first two games of the season and started against Brentford before being substituted at half-time. He also played in Ireland’s Nations League home defeats to England and Greece, both ending 2-0.
Although the 24-year-old is yet to experience a win this season, he was pivotal in Southampton’s Championship play-off success last season, contributing six goals and three assists from midfield. He scored in the 3-0 win over West Brom in the semi-finals and provided the assist for Adam Armstrong’s winner in the final against Leeds United at Wembley.
A key statistic from GIVEMESPORT highlights his loan spell at Stoke City during the 2022/23 season, where he netted three goals in 46 Championship appearances. His performances demonstrate why Russell Martin has called him a “real star.” With 73 appearances for Southampton under his belt, Smallbone will be eager to return from injury and help the Saints in their battle for Premier League survival.
Southampton were considered one of the favourites for relegation, and missing one of their top midfielders makes the challenge even tougher, especially at the Vitality Stadium. However, with a favourable set of fixtures in November, Smallbone’s return could align with a promising run of form that boosts Southampton’s chances of staying in the top flight.
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