Southampton striker Ross Stewart is yet to make an appearance for the club since joining from Championship rivals Sunderland in the summer for an undisclosed fee.
The Scotland international has been out since January with an injury to his Achilles tendon, but has been working towards getting back and is nearing a return, despite the fact he is yet to return to full training.
Journalist claims Saints star could ‘transform’ attack
Speaking to GiveMeSport, journalist Dean Jones has said that once Stewart is fully fit, he can be a real threat for Saints going forward.
“They are waiting to see whether Stewart can become available for the next game, but as soon as he becomes available, I think you’re looking at a player that can start to have them heading in the right direction.
“Southampton need competition for places everywhere, but in Stewart, you’ve got somebody keeping your main stars on their toes, and he’s got the potential to deliver goals that matter. I do think he can transform that Saints attack.
“Even if he’s just coming off the bench, just the sense that he’s forcing players like Adams to just step up that game and make sure they’re getting enough game time.”
Ross Stewart return would be a big boost
Stewart’s return would be a massive boost for manager Russell Martin.
Saints currently have the likes of Che Adams and Adam Armstrong upfront, who are both brilliant players at Championship level. Armstrong in particular has been great so far this season, scoring seven.
Stewart would provide a different option for Saints going forward, with Adams and Armstrong both being smaller, quicker players, Stewart is a striker who is great in the air due to his height and physique.
He could help tremendously when, if Saints are pressed too far back, Stewart can knock down the long balls potentially coming forward.
This would then allow Saints to keep hold of possession in times where they, more likely than not, would lose it.