Stephens and Welington to miss FA Cup tie
Tonda Eckert expressed the importance of managing his squad with "a couple of changes" expected ahead of this weekend's Emirates FA Cup clash against Leicester City.
Just four days after the incredible midweek comeback against the Foxes, Saints will be back at St Mary's for an instant rematch in the cup.
With the quick turnaround and busy Championship schedule, Eckert admitted that changes will be required for his side.
"Theres been a lot of conversations over the last few days to assess players. We have a tough schedule over the last few weeks and another eight, nine games coming up until the end of March.
"We need to make sure we have the best possible line-up with some fresh legs on the pitch, so there will be a couple of changes.
"I think it's important players have the chance to express themselves on a big stage and help us get through to the next round."
Without revealing who may be given an opportunity in Saturday's cup clash, Eckert shed light on the notable absentees with both Jack Stephens and Welington unavailable and Mads Roerslev set for a more significant spell on the sidelines.
"Jack went in for a scan and we hope he is fine for next week, Wely also went in for a scan so will miss the game on Saturday.
"Mads is going to go into surgery on Monday [for his Achilles], it looks like [the end of the season] at the moment so that's some tough news. We've also had some players on painkillers over the last weeks to make it through the games.
"It's a tough period of the season playing since November without a break. We want to go full tilt tomorrow but also make sure we don't risk players that are on the edge."
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