Frank Lampard has insisted Southampton's tactic of allegedly ensuring one of their players always goes down to receive treatment between the 60th and 70th minute is "fair game".
The Saints have often found a second wind to punish their tired opponents at times this season, including the recent 3-2 comeback victory away at Spurs that saw them score two late goals in two minutes.
How they muster up that energy may have finally been discovered.
The Athletic's research found that at least one Southampton player has sat on the turf and waited to receive treatment between the hour mark and 70th minute in 14 of their 24 Premier League matches this term.
Every time the stoppage occurs, Ralph Hasenhuttl's men will take the opportunity to consume some energy gels and enjoy a quick rest.
HAVE YOUR SAY! Is Southampton's tactic "fair game"? Comment below
Lampard's Everton make the trip to St Mary's this Saturday and the new Toffees boss was asked about the divisive tactic.
"I think it is fair game. I saw the report & I don't think there's absolute clarity... but I do think it's marginal gains. It's been going on for years," the former Chelsea manager explained.
It must be noted that there is no evidence to suggest Southampton's stars are deliberately feigning injury to try and give their side an advantage.
The gels taken on by the players are designed to increase energy and prolong endurance, with the substance beginning to kick in around 10 minutes after consumption.
There are no rules against taking the gels and they are often seen being used by players of every club in the division, especially when evening fixtures take place during Ramadan.
With that being said, Mirror Football understands that while it's understood no rules have been broken, the FA will be keeping tabs on future matches.
Given the relentless, pressing-style football Southampton play from the first whistle, it is no surprise they require some kind of energy boost long before the end of the game.
Taking on the gels at around the 60 minute stage allows for the Saints to have an added edge for the final stage of the game against whoever they are facing.
Former Wolves physio Phil Hayward told The Athletic: "I’m sure the sports scientists would have recommended it and suggested when it should be done, and Hasenhuttl has given it the green light."
The trend suggests that one of Southampton's attacking players are most likely to go down, with forward Adam Armstrong treated the most amount of times.
The striker has received treatment four times between the 60th and 70th minute this season.
Hasenhuttl is yet to comment on the findings and clarify whether it is merely a pure coincidence or something more.
