Source: PA
Much to ponder for Pardew
Southampton boss Alan Pardew faces a number of selection headaches as the Johnstone's Paint Trophy winners return to League One action against Brighton on Thursday.
The Saints boss is boosted by the return of winger Jason Puncheon, striker Lee Barnard and defenders Jon Otsemobor and Dan Seaborne after they were cup-tied for the 4-1 win over Carlisle.
However after such an emphatic display, Pardew could opt to keep faith with last Sunday's side.
That means Ndiaye Papa-Waigo could keep out Barnard when it comes to partnering Rickie Lambert in attack, while David Connolly is also in the frame having come off the bench to play the latter stages against the Cumbrians.
Dan Harding could keep his place at right-back despite the availability of Otsemobor, however Lloyd James may slot in if he shakes off an ankle injury that restricted him to a place on the bench at Wembley.
Midfielder Morgan Schneiderlin (hamstring) is a doubt while long-term absentees Wayne Thomas (torn calf) and Graeme Murty (ankle) are still sidelined for Saints, who have lost only twice in the league this year and sit 12 points adrift of the play-off places.
