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Southampton have received a welcome boost ahead of their crucial Championship clash against Stoke City, with both Ross Stewart and Damion Downs declared fit after recovering from illness. This positive news comes as a significant relief for manager Russell Martin, who has been battling a spate of injuries within his squad.

Stewart, a summer signing, had been a doubt after missing the recent Carabao Cup victory over Northampton Town due to a reported illness. His absence was keenly felt, and his return to contention adds a much-needed attacking option for Southampton. The forward’s physical presence and goalscoring ability are expected to provide a different dimension to the team’s attack.

Similarly, Damion Downs, a promising young talent, has also overcome his illness and is now available for selection. Downs’ versatility and defensive capabilities make him a valuable asset to the squad, offering Martin tactical flexibility in how he approaches the game against Stoke.

The timing of this recovery is particularly opportune, as Southampton face a tough test against a resilient Stoke City side. Stoke have been in decent form recently, and Southampton will need all their resources to secure a positive result. Martin will be hoping that the return of Stewart and Downs can provide the spark needed to overcome this challenge.

What This Means for Southampton:

• Increased Attacking Options: Ross Stewart’s return allows for greater variety in Southampton’s attacking play.
• Defensive Stability: Damion Downs’ availability strengthens the defensive line and provides tactical choices.
• Boost to Team Morale: Recoveries from illness are always a positive psychological boost for a team.

Looking Ahead:

The game against Stoke City is a key fixture in Southampton’s pursuit of a top-six finish. With Stewart and Downs back in the mix, Southampton will be confident of putting on a strong performance and securing a vital three points. Fans will be eager to see how Martin utilizes these returning players to unlock Stoke’s defense and drive the team forward. The match promises to be an exciting encounter, and Southampton’s improved squad depth certainly increases their chances of success.

Russell Martin will be carefully assessing his options in training before confirming his starting eleven. However, the return of these two players provides a welcome injection of quality and competition within the squad, setting the stage for a compelling match at the Bet365 Stadium.