Southampton saw their excellent recent run come to a halt at Bristol City on Tuesday night.
Going into the game, the Saints were unbeaten in 25 games across all competitions.
However, Russell Martin‘s side slipped to a 3-1 defeat at Ashton Gate to end that run. With Leeds United also claiming a 4-0 win away at Swansea City, Southampton have now dropped out of the automatic promotion places in the Championship table.
One player who the Saints found themselves unable to call upon in that defeat to the Robins was Flynn Downes.
In the wake of that defeat, it seems Martin believes Southampton would certainly have benefitted from the presnece of the on-loan West Ham midfielder at Ashton Gate.
Russell Martin hoping for swift Flynn Downes return
On Saturday, Downes was forced off just 33 minutes into the Saints’ 5-3 win over Huddersfield Town.
He was replaced in the side by Joe Rothwell, who scored two goals for Southampton in that victory.
Rothwell, along with Shea Charles, came into the midfield from the start against Bristol City. Downes and Stuart Armstrong were the two who missed out in that position.
However, Martin apparently believes having Downes available would have helped Southampton against Bristol City.
Indeed, he is confident that the midfielder will be able to feature when his side return to action away at West Brom on Friday night.
Asked whether Downes will be able to feature against the Baggies, Martin was quoted by Daily Echo reporter Alfie House as saying:
“I hope so. There’s a big chance. Flynn was a massive loss in a game like this as when you take him out the team is different athletically.”
Southampton need Flynn Downes back
It would surely be a boost for the Saints if they can have Downes back available against West Brom.
The Baggies are a team in form right now. Carlos Corberan’s side have won three and lost just one of their last five league games meaning they are challenging for a play-off place.
Friday’s game is therefore likely to be a big test for Southampton and they cannot afford to lose further ground to Leeds in the automatic promotion race.
Having Downes back could therefore be vital for the Saints given the influence he has had on their side this season.
The fact Martin knows him – both from the current campaign and their time together at Swansea City – also means he is a player who can step up for him in big games such as this.
As a result, it is likely that those of a Southampton persuasion will keeping a close eye out for further news on Downes’ situation over the next couple of days.