Southampton manager Russell Martin has expressed optimism about Che Adams’ condition ahead of their Championship play-off semi-final second leg against West Brom.
Adams missed the first leg due to a calf strain sustained in the Saints’ final regular season game against Leeds United. The 27-year-old, Southampton’s second-highest scorer this season with 18 goals in all competitions, is crucial for the team as they aim to overcome the Baggies.
Southampton will be without Stuart Armstrong, who got injured in April, and goalkeeper Gavin Bazunu, who is sidelined for the rest of the year. Adams has made significant progress and could feature against West Brom. If he is unable to play, Southampton might turn to £10 million signing Ross Stewart, despite his injury-plagued season following his transfer from Sunderland.
“Che is in a good place,” Martin stated in his pre-match press conference to Daily Echo journalist George Rees-Julian. “He is in a much better place. He has given himself the best chance.”
The Scotland striker might still play in the Premier League next season even if Southampton fails to secure promotion. According to talkSPORT, Wolves are confident of signing Adams on a free transfer this summer as his contract is expiring, with interest also coming from Bournemouth and Everton.
Gary O’Neil recently mentioned that Wolves won’t be spending heavily on new players, suggesting they might focus on the free agent market. Wolves have been seeking a dedicated striker, with Hwang Hee-Chan, Matheus Cunha, and Pedro Neto rotating in the role.
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