Southampton will have been handed a boost during the international break as they look to prepare for their Premier League game against Brighton and Hove Albion.
The two sides will square off on Monday night at the St. Mary’s Stadium and it appears that Mark Hughes’ team will be able to call upon a key player for the south coast clash.
According to Ben Dinnery, who is a freelance injury data analyst, Mario Lemina had been given permission to sit out of Gabon’s latest friendly against Zambia.
Pierre Emerick Aubameyang [#AFC] and Mario Lemina [#SaintsFC] were both given permission to miss Gabon's friendly with Zambia on Tuesday to ensure their availability for this weekend's Premier League fixtures.
— Ben Dinnery (@BenDinnery) September 12, 2018
It is being claimed that the 25-year-old was allowed to miss their country’s fixture so they could be available for Southampton’s Premier League clash.
The Saints are currently on a mixed run of form in the top-flight at the moment, with Hughes’ side currently sitting in mid-table, with one win and one draw from their opening four matches.
The Verdict:
Southampton will be delighted that Lemina will be available for their match against Brighton.
The 25-year-old has played well for the Saints so far this summer and has formed a key partnership with Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg in the middle of the field, keeping the likes of Steven Davis and summer signing Stuart Armstrong out of the side.
The midfielder has impressed at the St Mary’s Stadium since his move from Juventus last season and will be looking to continue with his solid performances against the Seagulls on Monday night.
Southampton fans – thoughts?
