Southampton manager Russell Martin has disclosed that Saints’ goalkeeper Gavin Bazunu is likely to miss the upcoming showdown with Leeds United at Elland Road.
With Daniel Farke’s Whites currently sitting three points ahead of Southampton, who have a game in hand in the race for automatic promotion, the final day clash holds immense significance.
Southampton’s recent 3-0 victory over Preston narrowed the gap to the top, but Martin confirmed post-match that he remains uncertain about Bazunu’s and Flynn Downes’ return from injury.
As quoted by Yorkshire Evening Post (17 April) he said: “He’s [Downes] felt something in his Achilles and he’ll get a scan tomorrow. I’m sure by the time I speak to you on Friday, we’ll know the extent of it.
“But I don’t expect to see Gavin any time soon at all. I am devastated for him, but we’ll support him in the best possible way because it’s the way this club is.”
Leeds United find themselves embroiled in a fierce battle at the top of the Championship, having missed several opportunities to surpass Leicester City and Ipswich Town.
Their inconsistent performances post-international break highlight the necessity for an improved showing if they aim to secure a top-two finish.
Farke recognizes the need for his side to elevate their performance levels, especially with the crucial clash against Southampton looming on the horizon. While Bazunu has faced criticism during his time at St Mary’s, his notable improvement this season signifies his importance to Southampton’s defensive setup.
A potential absence of Bazunu in the pivotal fixture could serve as a significant advantage for Leeds United in their pursuit of automatic promotion. However, Farke’s side remains determined to secure a favorable outcome, with hopes of sealing the job before the final encounter.
As the Championship season approaches its climax, the unpredictability of outcomes ensures that there will be no shortage of twists and turns in the coming weeks. Leeds United and Southampton must navigate these challenges adeptly to realize their promotion aspirations.