MANAGER Russell Martin has promised to make changes to his Saints side when they face Manchester United on Saturday.

Martin has almost every player available for the first time this season with only Ghana winger Kamaldeen Sulemana unavailable through injury.

The boss admitted he has had to balance his loyalty towards the players who got Saints promoted with the reality of their recent performances.

The likes of Tyler Dibling, Mateus Fernandes and Cameron Archer have all been praised for their impact but are yet to start a Premier League fixture.

Here's how we think Martin will lineup following nearly two weeks without competitive football...

Goalkeeper

There is no question that Aaron Ramsdale should make his St Mary's debut on Saturday.

The five-time England international produced some important saves during his maiden appearance at Brentford and will be important once again.

Aaron Ramsdale made his debut in a 3-1 defeat to BrentfordAaron Ramsdale made his debut in a 3-1 defeat to Brentford (Image: PA)Defenders

The biggest question in defence is whether Martin will elect to retain the five-back system or switch to a four-back to free a spot for an additional attacker.

Saints have looked light in attack during their three defeats and could do with another option - but the nature of facing Manchester United could force them to be more cautious.

We predict that Martin will stick with the tried and tested back five of Yukinari Sugawara, Jan Bednarek, Taylor Harwood-Bellis, Jack Stephens and Kyle Walker-Peters.

If he is to make a change, Harwood-Bellis would likely be the one to drop out having been subbed on two occasions this season.

Southampton's Kyle Walker-PetersSouthampton's Kyle Walker-Peters (Image: Stuart Martin) Midfielders

Flynn Downes is an obvious name on the team sheet following his impressive transition back into Premier League football.

Mateus Fernandes should come in for his first league start since joining from Sporting. Joe Aribo will likely round out the three-man midfield.

Mateus Fernandes and Russell MartinMateus Fernandes and Russell Martin (Image: Stuart Martin) Forwards

Adam Armstrong was the first name on the teamsheet for much of last season but has struggled in front of goal this season.

He could drop out for Cameron Archer to make his first league start. The former Villa man is Southampton's top goalscorer this season after hitting a brace in the Carabao Cup.

Ben Brereton Diaz should partner him up front. Although yet to score his first competitive goal, the Chile international offers a lot off the ball and is tasked with linking play in the final third.

Full predicted team

(5-3-2) Ramsdale; Sugawara, Harwood-Bellis, Bednarek, Stephens, Walker-Peters; Downes, Fernandes, Aribo; Archer, Brereton Diaz.