Southampton legend Francis Benali says playing Martin Caceres in the EFL Cup final against Manchester United is a risk.

The centre-back has not played for more than a year and Benali believes that it would be “near on impossible" for the Uruguayan to be fit for the showpiece final against Manchester United at Wembley a week tomorrow.

“It's a good thing for the club to have another player around," he told the Daily Echo. “It seems a risk-free arrangement and makes sense, considering his previous fitness problems, to bring him in on a short-term deal.

“Apart from the wages he's cost nothing and will provide added depth to the squad.

“Saints have lost a lot of quality with Virgil van Dijk's injury and it was crucial bring someone in. But with the transfer window closed their hands were tied in terms of who they could bring in.

“Another injury in the squad would have caused big problems, so this makes everyone more comfortable.

“It's a sensible signing and it could well pay off, but I wouldn't imagine he'd be involved at Wembley ... that's near on impossible.

“If he hasn't been playing at a competitive level it would be a big gamble.