Journalist delivers worrying update on Southampton fan favourite | OneFootball

Southampton's midfield anchor Adam Lallana seems set to be left out of Ivan Juric's matchday squad. Already without some of their key players, Lallana's fatigue issue has hollowed the midfield department even further.

Southampton and Bournemouth are city rivals but their current fortunes have been poles apart. While the latter are enjoying a rich vein of form and fitness, the Saints are lagging in both aspects with each passing day.

In the past few days, Ivan Juric must have been trying to solve the defensive puzzle. Whether he comes up with a good solution remains a secondary thought, though.

This is because the Southampton manager must turn the attention towards the midfield. Already having an ongoing conflict with Flynn Downes, Juric isn't likely to avail the services of Adam Lallana either.

Don't get it wrong, Lallana hasn't strained his chemistry with the Croatian head coach. Instead, the senior star is unlikely to recover in time and make it to the final teamsheet.

Journalist delivers worrying update on Southampton fan favourite

In his own words, Daily Echo's reporter Alfie House said: "Taylor Harwood-Bellis still ruled out. Adam Lallana is a doubt for the match, everything else is okay."

As big a misery as it is for Southampton, Lallana would also be annoyed at this situation. Understandably, because the 36-year-old would have been looking forward to playing against his former club.

On top of that, the derby atmosphere had all the making of a memorable outing at St. Mary's. Unfortunately, Lallana might have to stay content with watching his teammates from the stands.

In all honesty, Lallana isn't expected to play every minute of every Southampton game. Still, his wisdom and composure are an asset to the squad whose inadequacy might develop a significant void tonight.

The best thing Southampton can do is to bridge that gap and stand up to the Bournemouth challenge. Will they achieve success doing that, remains to be seen.