Southampton secured a morale-boosting 2-1 win over Leeds United on the final day of the regular Championship season on Saturday.
Manager Russell Martin took his side to Elland Road following three consecutive defeats and a run of just three wins in their last nine.
With Leeds maintaining a slim hope of automatic promotion going into the game and Southampton destined for the play-offs regardless of the outcome it was difficult to know what to expect from the clash.
However, Southampton were determined not to make it easy for the home side and put in their best performance in weeks against a strong Leeds side.
The two teams could now meet again in the play-off final at Wembley on 26th May so Southampton doing a league double over Leeds this season could have a part to play mentally should that be the case.
Martin made the bold decision to play his best side despite the play-offs looming and there was a moment of real concern as Che Adams limped off on 61 minutes.
Russell Martin provides Che Adams injury update
Southampton hearts would have been in their mouths as Adams received treatment before coming off to be replaced by Kamaldeen Sulemana.
The striker has become increasingly important as the campaign has gone on and is likely to be key to their hopes of promotion via the play-offs.
With 17 goals and six assists in all competitions this season, only Adam Armstrong has scored more for the Saints this season.
Following the match, Martin was asked the question on everyone’s lips but was quick to reassure the Southampton faithful.
The 38-year-old manager confirmed: “He (Adams) felt a bit of tightness.”
Martin added: “There is no point carrying on and risking him after that. I think he will be alright. Thankfully we also had Ross Stewart to bring on today, which was really amazing for us.”
Play-offs could be last Southampton games for Adams
Despite the recent poor form, Southampton have always looked a much better team with Adams playing this season.
The striker provides his side with an outlet when they are under pressure, as well as constantly dropping deep to link the play.
Whilst his finishing is not always the most clinical, he does chip in with his fair share of goals and his movement makes him incredibly difficult to defend against.
With that in mind, it will be reassuring to hear that the former Birmingham City man should be fit and ready for the play-offs.
Martin is a big fan of the 27-year-old and would love to keep him at the club, but with Adams’ contract set to expire in the summer and no signs that he will sign up to new terms, the play-offs could be his last act as a Southampton player.
Speaking on the contract situation of Adams and fellow Scotsman Stuart Armstrong – who is also out of contract this month – Martin said: “There was a lot of conversation between the start of the season and January.
“It was left in January that they were both comfortable with what they were doing and giving everything they’ve got.
“As long as they do that we have no problem at all. I really respect them and I think they respect the club’s position as well.
“As long as there is an understanding of each other we will be fine. They have both been outstanding for us – especially recently.”
Regardless of whether Southampton are successful in the play-offs, it looks as though Adams will be moving on in the summer.