Predicted Southampton lineup vs Brighton: Will Downes start alongside Aribo? | OneFootball

Flynn Downes' return has sparked a buzz among the Southampton fans. Still, lacking crucial squad pieces, could Downes help Juric to complete the playing eleven puzzle?

It goes without saying that Juric and Downes' mutual agreement has come at the perfect moment for Southampton. Managing an injury crisis, the arrival of proven players gives a much needed relief.

In Downes' scenario, Juric might have found the perfect aid to a languishing defence. If that sounds disconnected, well how about Downes controlling the midfield to allow Aribo in his usual playmaking role?

That being said, let's lift the lid on our predicted Southampton lineup for today.

Predicted Southampton lineup vs Brighton: Will Downes start alongside Aribo?

GK - Aaron Ramsdale.

Should be the obvious name in Juric's mind after his amazing derby performance.

CB - Jan Bednarek.

Needs to find his January form soon and must build a solid defensive foundation.

CB - James Bree.

Juric didn't seem very confident with Wood thus, Bree will partner Bednarek again.

CB - Kyle Walker-Peters.

Russell Martin effectively utilized Walker-Peters at the heart of the defence, previously. Due to his quick pace and positional awareness, Juric must field Walker-Peters as a centre-back again.

LWB - Welington.

Plays well on the left and could operate as a wide midfielder against Brighton.

RWB - Yukinari Sugawara.

Sugawara sounded confident to man-mark Mitoma pre-match. Hopefully, the 24-year-old enjoys an upper hand in this battle.

CM - Flynn Downes.

Starred in the reverse fixture and is again expected to back the manager's trust in him.

CM - Joe Aribo.

No doubt, Aribo will start and Downes' presence could see him link up more with Southampton's attacking department.

CM - Lesley Ugochukwu.

Brings plenty of pace and energy and, therefore can be tasked with supporting the defence on counter-attacks.

ST - Kamaldeen Sulemana.