Three out of favour Southampton stars who can start against Tottenham | OneFootball

Southampton's underrated trio can be called to fill the void left by Flynn Downes and Paul Onuachu's potential unavailabilities.

In an ideal scenario, the Crystal Palace draw should have helped Southampton get fixated on their playing eleven. Yet, Flynn Downes has received his resting orders and Paul Onuachu might also find it hard to fetch the fitness nod for another demanding Big-Six trip.

Now, it's certain that Southampton must have reached their familiar panic-state already but there are still some solutions in sight. Needless to say, Southampton's roster is vastly big and this factor could see them avail the services of as many as three out of favour stars while plotting their starting lineup.

A midfielder and a forward are the need of the hour, and the below trio can strengthen Southampton's on-field balance to a decent extent.

Saints trio could be counted on for Tottenham test

Will Smallbone

Pretty obvious choice to replace Downes in the middle of the park. In terms of game awareness, Smallbone ranks among the top squad members but the 25-year-old has his work cut out in the physical department.

Sure, that's an improving area for the long-run but Smallbone is positively touted to be selection ready on Sunday. Fitting in Downes' shoes won't be easy but the Liverpool clash suggests that Smallbone can be relied upon in crunch situations.

Ross Stewart

In the span of a week, Stewart has gone from attending U21 training to now becoming a potential Paul Onuachu understudy.

Resembles a similar heading-oriented playing style as the 30-year-old and might come in handy with Southampton's through-ball strengths.

Cameron Archer

Operated as Southampton's Onuachu-like trusted frontman last year but that phase seems to have long gone. Still, every day is a fresh start and Archer could see himself being fielded from the get-go in front of the Londoners.

If that indeed happens, the 23-year-old will not want to leave the pitch empty-handed which goes well with Southampton's collective resolution.