Southampton manager Russell Martin has confirmed that Taylor Harwood-Bellis will be part of the squad for the upcoming match against Hull City in the Championship this weekend. The Saints are currently sitting in 10th place on the Championship table, just below their opponents, who are in 9th place. Martin’s team is on a three-game unbeaten streak following a challenging period with four consecutive defeats.
During the recent international break, Southampton received concerning news about Harwood-Bellis as it was reported that the 21-year-old had to withdraw from the Young Lions squad due to a hamstring injury. However, speaking to the Daily Echo before the weekend fixture, Martin provided an update on the Manchester City loanee’s condition, stating that the injury is not as severe as initially feared. He mentioned that Taylor is in the squad, and they will assess his fitness on the day of the game to determine if he can start.
Martin commended Harwood-Bellis for playing through the injury during a previous match, emphasizing the player’s strong mindset and determination. The injury, though not too serious, may require some careful management for a few players who have returned from international duty.
The return of Harwood-Bellis is a relief for Martin and his team, as he is an important figure for the Saints, especially considering their inconsistent form. While the injury appears less severe than expected, it is likely that Martin will consider starting the Manchester City loanee on the bench for the upcoming game.
Hull City is a strong opponent, and both teams are looking to improve their recent form. They aim to deliver a positive performance for their home fans in the upcoming match.