Southampton: Russell Martin provides Che Adams update ahead of West Brom play-off clash | OneFootball

Russell Martin has provided an injury update on Che Adams ahead of Southampton’s play-off battle with West Brom.

Martin opted to field a strong starting line-up for Saturday’s win over Leeds United, with the Saints winning 2-1 at Elland Road.

Goals from Adam Armstrong and Will Smallbone secured the victory over their promotion rivals, condemning the Whites to the play-offs.

However, Adams suffered a knock and was forced off in the second half, with Ghanaian attacker Kamaldeen Sulemana replacing him around the hour mark.

The south coast club will be hoping to keep everyone available for their upcoming post-season promotion shootout as they seek a Premier League return.

Russell Martin issues Che Adams injury update

Martin has clarified why Adams came off against Leeds, indicating that it isn’t anything too serious.

He claimed that the substitution was a precaution, while also pointing out the availability of Ross Stewart as a boost heading into the play-offs.

"He felt a bit of tightness,” said Martin, via the Daily Echo.

"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."

Adams has been a key part of Southampton’s campaign, contributing 16 goals and four assists from 40 appearances in the league.

The forward is entering the final months of his contract with the club, and could walk away from St. Mary’s for nothing in the summer.

However, he has the opportunity to help the team gain promotion to the top flight before then.

Martin will be hoping Adams will be available for the first leg clash against West Brom at the Hawthorns on 12 May.

The return to fitness of Stewart will also be a boost, with the Scot’s last appearance being in November prior to coming off the bench against Leeds.

Southampton finished the regular Championship season fourth in the table, three points behind Leeds in third.

The gap to the top two was nine points, with Ipswich Town and Leicester City clinching second and first respectively.

The Saints are seeking an immediate return to the Premier League after suffering relegation from the top flight last year.

Victory over West Brom in their two-legged semi-final would see Martin’s team face either Leeds or Norwich City in Wembley Stadium in the final on 26 May for a place in the first division.

Che Adams will be key to Southampton winning the Championship play-offs

Losing Adams to injury at this stage would be a huge blow, so taking him against Leeds made a lot of sense.

While it was a risk to start such a strong team in a game that meant nothing, getting a win over the Whites could prove a psychological boost ahead of the play-offs.

The Saints have been out of form lately, so going into the post-season with an important win could help the players regain their focus.

West Brom will be a tricky test in the semi-finals, which is why Martin will be keen to keep as many players fit and available as possible for the two or three games.