Ralph Hassenhuttl has confirmed Armel Bella-Kotchap and Roméo Lavia will be back in contention to face Newcastle United this weekend. The 20-year-old Germany international dislocated his shoulder in Southampton's 1-1 draw with West Ham United last month, while 18-year-old Lavia has not featured since the win over Chelsea earlier in the seaosn.
Speaking at his press conference this afternoon, Hassenhuttl said: “In contention, yes,” when asked about Lavia’s imminent return. “But we had, this week, also a little problem with his knee.
“This happens often when you are long out, some other issues and you have to be careful. Yesterday he was not training but I think he will be part of the squad on the weekend for us. I think this is quite likely.
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“[Bella-Kotchap] is also an option for the weekend. He is back in training and has trained everything and shows no fear.”
However, the Saints will be without Kyle Walker-Peters who is unlikely to feature before the international break. Hasenhüttl added: “It has gone from low to no [possibility]. We have one week left and he is not training with us so I don’t think so.”
Predicted Southampton XI: Bazunu, Lyanco, Caleta-Car, Salisu, Elyounoussi, Ward-Prowse, Diallo, Armstrong, Perraud, Aribo, Adams.
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