Southampton FC predicted team lineup vs Birmingham City

The Blues are unbeaten at St Andrew's in 2024 despite sitting just three points clear of the Championship's relegation zone.

Russell Martin's Saints know they must win every game left this season to have the best chance of promotion back to the Premier League.

Here is how we think the boss will line up his side... 

Goalkeeper

League stopper Gavin Bazunu will claim back his number one shirt following Joe Lumley's appearance in the FA Cup.

Gavin Bazunu is looking for his 11th clean sheet of the season (Image: Stuart Martin)

Defenders

Martin commented that Saints need Jack Stephens at the moment but Taylor Harwood-Bellis and Jan Bednarek should get the nod. 

James Bree will stand in for the injured Kyle Walker-Peters, while Ryan Manning could keep his place on the left of defence.

James Bree has a chance to stake a claim in the team (Image: PA)

Midfielders

Flynn Downes is set to make his return and Martin could opt for his inclusion from the start with four defeats in five without him.

Joe Aribo was impressive at Anfield and he should partner Stuart Armstrong in what is a strong Saints midfield. 

Joe Aribo is emerging as one of Southampton's key men (Image: Stuart Martin)

Attackers

Adam Armstrong has started on the bench in the last two but will be recalled to face the side he has plundered seven career goals against.

He will flank Che Adams on the right with Sam Edozie supporting the Scottish international from the left. 

Adam Armstrong has scored more goals versus Birmingham than any other team (Image: SDE)

Full predicted team

Saints: Bazunu; Bree, Harwood-Bellis, Bednarek, Manning; Downes, Aribo, S Armstrong; A Armstrong, Edozie, Adams.