The transfer window is fast approaching and Southampton will be looking at what they can do to improve their squad in January to put them in the best possible position for the rest of the season.
Southampton fans could be forgiven for anticipating a busy January, with Championship fixtures coming thick and fast and the third round of the FA Cup, but one factor they may not have consider is the African Cup of Nations.
Southampton have been dealt a huge blow in their bid for promotion as the player signed in the summer to spearhead their attack has effectively been ruled out for the season.
Southampton finished bottom of the Premier League last season and suffered relegation in the process, but managed to retain some key players despite dropping to the Championship.
Southampton were on the brink of a third consecutive win on Saturday, but a 96th minute Watford equaliser meant the Saints had to settle for one point rather than three.
When Kamaldeen Sulemana went off injured in the first half against Bristol City two games ago, it was a surprise to see the winger replaced by striker Che Adams.
Southampton have received disappointing injury news recently, with both Kamaldeen Sulemana and summer signing Ross Stewart both suffering injuries that will see them out until the new year.
After a difficult start to the season which saw him arguably at fault for some of the goals Southampton conceded, Gavin Bazunu has now kept back-to-back clean sheets and has only conceded two goals in his last five games.
Southampton face their third game in a week on Saturday as they welcome Cardiff to St Mary’s for a 3pm kick-off.