Jose Fonte and Cedric Soares are to be given the maximum amount of time to prove their fitness ahead of the Premier League kick-off against Watford tomorrow.

Claude Puel admitted that he is yet to decide whether either or both of them will be able to figure at St Mary’s.

The pair have only been back at the club for just over a fortnight after being allowed to return late to give them a holiday following their exploits with Portugal at Euro 2016.

It means they have only had 45 minutes of pre-season action, and have also been working on their physical state rather than joining in with tactical training sessions with rest of the group.

Puel has an obvious dilemma.

He said: “It’s a good question. It’s my question for myself for this game.

“They play 45 minutes, they come back two weeks ago, they don’t work in the tactical sessions in training also. We will see.

“I don’t know for the moment if one or the two will start the game. We will see.”

The only player definitely ruled out for the Watford game at this stage is Ryan Bertrand, with Matt Targett looking likely to win the battle to start the season at left back.

Cuco Martina and Maya Yoshida are the most likely stand-ins if Cedric and Fonte don’t make it.

Puel was asked about the rumours linking Fonte, who has been offered improved terms at the club, with a move away from Saints.

The skipper has been touted as a target for a number of clubs, but Puel insisted he didn’t see him leaving St Mary’s.

“The window is always difficult for the club and also for the players with much discussion,” reflected Puel.

“For Southampton it’s important to keep Jose. He’s a player who is very important for the team, a good player.

“I don’t see the possibility for Jose to leave us. I say it’s very important for the team, with just two weeks after his comeback is a little difficult but I am sure he can play the next games with a good attitude and a good spirit because he’s a very good professional.

“When I see him on the pitch he is very interesting, has a good attitude and is a good professional.”

He added: “It’s a window and many players can have an interest and many clubs can have an interest for our players. It’s normal. Jose and other players.

“I enjoy with the squad because I find qualities in doing good play and also a very good spirit and to play.

“Southampton has a very good spirit and a very good attitude and this is very important for the future of Southampton.”