Saints will make a late decision on whether to hand Sofiane Boufal his first start for the club ahead of tonight’s game against Sunderland.

The £16m club record signing has appeared as a second half sub in the last two matches as Claude Puel takes a cautious approach to his return to action.

Boufal has not started a game since April due to a knee injury, but is battling back to full fitness.

Tonight’s League Cup last 16 tie at St Mary’s would appear to be the ideal chance to get him involved for longer.

However, Puel revealed that even playing 20 minutes at Manchester City was difficult for Boufal due to the knee problem he has suffered with, and so he will assess the risks before making a decision.

“We will see his recovery to see the possibility for this game and if he can start,” insisted Puel.

“I don’t know, we have to see his recovery and his knee.

“It was difficult just 20 minutes for him (at Manchester City) but it’s important to stay present with him and to see him come back step by step.

“He will be an important player for the squad and it’s important to keep him with a good physical, and without injury is even more important.”

Puel is expected to give a few of his young players a game this evening, but will still ensure he has plenty of senior stars in the side.

Having been in and around the squad in recent weeks, Jack Stephens could well get a game, while Puel hopes Matt Targett or Ryan Bertrand will be available to give Sam McQueen a break, with the 21-year-old having featured in three games in the space of a week.

Cuco Martina has had the same demands placed upon him, and is also set to be given a breather.

Oriol Romeu, another who has been heavily leaned on, could be replaced by Harrison Reed, while Olufela Olomola is expected to be in the shake-up.

Jay Rodriguez is likely to get the chance to continue his return to full fitness.